Today is the International Day of Radiology, celebrating the role of our exceptional Radiology staff.
Dr Aroha Si’ilata, a consultant radiologist, says she has always enjoyed working at Middlemore Hospital, especially in the Radiology department.
Being of Māori (Ngāti Raukawa, Tūhourangi), Samoan, and Fijian ethnicity Aroha enjoys working amongst the diverse population at Middlemore Hospital.
"I'm a South Auckland girl, so working where it feels like home is nice. Working in my community and with my people has always been very fulfilling," says Aroha.
After her medical school placements here, she returned as a house officer and again as a radiology registrar. Aroha’s career has seen her work at other sites, including a year in Melbourne recently, yet the desire has always been to return.
"This is my first year back at Middlemore as an SMO (senior medical officer), and it’s lovely to be back. It’s busy but always good. I remember when I was a medical student walking down the old rainbow corridor for ward rounds or tutorials, which makes me feel old."
Choosing to specialise in musculoskeletal radiology Aroha likes the mix of diagnostic and procedural work. She enjoys interacting with patients when doing procedures.
"I frequently have Maaori and Pasifika patients, and once I introduce myself and they hear my name, they realise I am Maaori/Pasifika too.
“We often chat about our cultural backgrounds. They’re sometimes surprised that I am their doctor. I often run over time because of my conversations with patients, but I like being able to put people at ease, especially since being in hospital can be quite scary for patients.”
Aroha has seen the hospital get busier every year, but she chooses to work here because of the people.
"Our Middlemore Radiology department is a wonderful place to work because of the staff. It’s not an easy job but working with warm and supportive colleagues makes a hard day a good day."
The Radiology service has 207 staff — radiologists, Radiographers (MRT), Sonographers, Radiology Nurses, PCAs, the PACS team, Administration team members, and Student MRTs — who complete more than 150,000 scans/procedures each year for our inpatients and outpatients.
We thank them for all their hard work and dedication.