Mater profile: Dr Rod Allen

Dr Rod Allen is an obstetrician and gynaecologist and recently opened his practice at Mater Private Clinic.

His rooms can be contacted by telephone +61 7 3163 5777, by fax +61 7 3163 5778 or by email rodallen@allenmedical.com.au.

Interview

Why did you choose to specialise in obstetrics & gynaecology?

While I was at university, I was placed at Armidale with an amazing obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Colin Mason and he provided the inspiration for my choice. He was an excellent mentor and made the whole experience a lot of fun.

What do you find the most rewarding aspect of your profession?

In obstetrics you are essentially dealing with women who are healthy and going through an exciting time in their life. It is great to be able to share that experience with my patients.

Gynaecology is different in that the patients usually have some problem they have been putting up with for ages and it is rewarding to be able to diagnose their health problem and send them home healthy again.

What is the most challenging area of your specialty?

Complex obstetrics. Mothers who have high risk pregnancies, whether it be multiple births, high blood pressure, diabetes etc. It is always a challenge to help these mothers get through these difficulties and fulfil their dreams of taking home a healthy baby.

What is your most valuable professional experience to date?

I have worked in a number of hospitals throughout Queensland but if any experience was to stand out, it would be working for the Flying Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service based at Roma. It was an excellent job and a great learning experience involving a lot of surgery and dealing with advanced conditions. We flew to a number of far flung regional areas and you could really see the difference you were making.

Why did you choose to set up practice at Mater?

I like the philosophy of Mater. It has a very caring approach as well as having cutting edge technology and being leaders in obstetrics and gynaecology. It is also reassuring for both the doctor and mother to know that there is a huge support network at Mater with all the benefits of having paediatricians and the neonatal nurseries as a back up, if the need arises.

Do you have a passion besides medicine?

My children. In my spare time, l love hanging out with my kids and mucking around with them.