Doctor Sreeja Swamidas, or Doctor Das, as she is known to most of her patients, is now visiting patients in Emmaville on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Emmaville Health Service Manager Jenny Newberry said the reception was very positive at the welcome morning.

“It was lovely for everyone to meet her,” she said.

Dr Das said her welcome barbecue in Emmaville was very touching and it was very lovely to see such a great turnout.

“I really feel like they need a doctor,” she said.

“They are out in the country without anyone, so if I can help someone that would be great.

“Doctor Annetts has been a big support; all four of them (at AHM Medical Centre) have been really supportive.”

“He did all the hard work and it has been set up very well.

“They have the confidence in me, to continue his good work.” 

Doctor Das has moved to Glen Innes from Belmont where she was working in accident and emergency, but she is originally from India where she worked as a cardiac and general surgeon.

Doctor Peter Annetts said it is great having a new doctor spending time in Glen Innes and Emmaville.

“It’s working really well,” he said.

“It seems it be a very successful model, as the doctor is not professionally isolated.

“Sreeja is very mature and is very experienced.” Vegetable Creek Hospital Auxiliary president Ellie Seagrave said patients are receiving better attention now than they have for years.

“She is a lovely person and very thorough with all her patients,” she said.  “We are very fortunate to get her.”