Getting to Know: Dr Xiao Luo of Balmain Village Health

Dr Xiao Luo joined Balmain Village Health earlier this year with extensive experience as a GP, in hospitals and as a medical researcher. Her special interests include children’s health, mental health and skin cancer detection. Find out about her approach to healthcare and how her commute to work is helping her stay grounded during the Covid-19 lockdown.

Tell us a little bit about yourself
On completion of my medical degree, I studied further and graduated with a PhD in Medicine. I then pursued a career in medical research in Australia and the US for 10 years with special interests in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and renal disease.

I completed my medical training at different hospitals in Sydney. My training in mental health at St Vincent’s Hospital gave me extensive experience in various areas of psychiatry. My experience in paediatrics at the Westmead Children’s Hospital has been valuable in my general practice years.

I have worked as a General Practitioner in a private clinic and as a visiting medical officer at a local hospital on the South Coast of NSW. My time on the South Coast offered me the opportunity to manage complicated and serious conditions independently due to lack of specialist input in this regional community.

What path led you to choosing this career?
At the end of my medical training, I found it difficult to choose a specialty for my life long career. I initially pursued psychiatry and paediatrics. Then, I realised I enjoy a diversity of medical disciplines, and more importantly holistic and preventative approaches to medicine in primary care settings . By working in general practice, I am able to work closely with my patients and their families. I am keen to listen to their stories.

Do you have any special areas of interest as a GP? What appeals to you most about these areas?
As well as children’s health and mental health, I have an interest in skin cancer detection. I also have extensive experience in chronic disease management, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic pain management. I acquired a Diploma in Child Health (DCH) from the University of Sydney and a Certificate in Women’s Health from NSW Family Planning Australia. I am interested in contraception choice and preconception advice, antenatal care and postnatal care. I also perform implanon insertion and removal.

Are there any mindfulness techniques or practices you use to stay grounded during difficult times, like this current lockdown?
I have always maintained a balanced lifestyle. I jog daily prior to work. I play golf and piano in my free time. I must admit, like everyone, I have experienced down times during the lockdown. I now walk to work daily, which is 6-7km per day. By doing this, I have had the opportunity to explore and enjoy our inner west neighborhoods, waterfront, parks, and our local heritage. I feel I am closer to the land where I live and realise how important it is to play my part in the preservation of our natural resources.

I have a passion for landscaping, gardening and interior design. Recently I have had more time to work on my newly established garden.

Favourite places in the inner west?
The inner west is a beautiful part of Sydney. I enjoy its proximity to the CBD and Sydney Harbour. I love our vibrant Darling Street with its restaurants and cafes.

Balmain Village Health, 275 Darling Street, Balmain, 9575 4111, balmainvillagehealth.com.au