Dr Charles Corke has served the Geelong community for over three decades as an intensive care specialist at University Hospital.
On Monday, June 9 he was recognised for his significant contribution to medicine, being awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) as part of the King’s Birthday Honours.
Born in the UK and arriving in Australia in 1985, Dr Corke was director of University Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit from 1991 to 2008, where he still works today.
An associate professor at Deakin University’s Faculty of Health, he has written books such as his most recent title, Handing Over: Reflections and Advice to Young Doctors.
Dr Corke said while the initial attraction of medicine was technology and science, over time he discovered his real passions.
“As time’s gone on it’s communication, and the ethics of communication, that I find more interesting and challenging,” Dr Corke said.
“What I really love is teaching the next generation, with a particular focus on patient-centered care and shared decision-making.
“But of course, actually treating patients has always been immensely satisfying, to make things better for people who are in a difficult situation.”
Dr Corke’s work on patient-centred care led to him serving as deputy chair of the Voluntary Assisted Dying review board from 2019 to 2024.
“I support a sort of health care that’s patient-focused and is looking at and listens to the patient’s concerns,” he said.
“Clearly, voluntary assisted dying is an example of that sort of care, that listens to the concerns patients have and what they’re asking for and addresses that in a safe and regulated way.”
