There were a few teary eyes in the hospital on Wednesday morning as staff gathered for a morning tea to farewell Dr Azar Mirzaee.
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The general practitioner came to Glen Innes just over four years ago and has since developed special relationships with the town, her staff and her patients.
“I’ve been really happy with my work here,” she said.
“The main thing is that everybody is always ready to help.”
Dr Azar has worked in hospitals around the world, but said the dedication she had seen over the years at Glen Innes Hospital was rare.
“It’s really amazing, to be honest … we have had days or hours here where we really need help and it doesn’t matter if you’re on duty or not, everyone just comes and helps,” she said.
“That’s something that was unique for me to see in Glen Innes.
“I’ve worked in different hospitals including the biggest hospital in the Middle East.
“But the sense of friendship in this team and getting a hand when it’s needed is unique.”
Throughout her time at the hospital she has worked as a GP in the private room, emergency and as an obstetrician.
“My main concern is that there’s no replacement for me,” she said.
“I think that would be a big issue for the town and for the mothers … I don’t think one person is going to be enough for this town and Hunter New England Health Services should put more investment into this and be more observant of the needs here.
“I’m really worried about my patients.”
Clinical Midwifery Educator Sarah Whyte and Clinical Nurse Manager Penny Whan said Dr Azar will be missed.
“I’ve worked with Azar in the maternity unit and her kindness to women, especially in the labour ward, and her compassion … she’s very dedicated to her women and we’ll miss her very much,” Ms Whyte said.
Ms Whan has worked with Dr Azar in emergency and on the medical ward.
“Her loyalty to her patients and the nursing staff just adore her,” Ms Whan said.
Dr Azar is moving to Melbourne, Victoria, with her last day this Thursday.