VICDOC Summer 2025 - Flipbook - Page 37
It aims to combat loneliness by fostering
questions, and shared ideas seemed to
collegiality between peers, facilitating
light something up in them – it was lovely
discussions around the medical
to see him so engaged,
profession and current state of
animated, and deeply immersed.
practice, and even providing mentorship
and an experienced perspective for the
younger visitor.
More than 12 years later, the program
continues to thrive by arranging regular
visits and phone calls to connect retired
doctors with peers. These interactions
generally occur around once a fortnight,
usually at the doctor’s home or aged
care facility or a mutually agreeable
location for those who are more mobile.
Both visitors and visitor recipients report
Our meeting with Nisha* was another
beautiful moment, a gentle outing
that offered space to share stories,
find common narratives, and reflect
on shared experiences. There was
such warmth and connection in that
exchange, as we reminisced and
found threads that linked our journeys
together. These moments were not only
enriching but deeply touching for myself,
reminding us of the power of friendship,
curiosity, and shared purpose.=
that they find the connection with a
The success of the Peer Visitor
fellow doctor fulfilling in many ways.
Program is evident in the lasting
In 2025, the program comprised a
diverse group of volunteers from
different backgrounds, including medical
students, interns, and professionals from
various specialties and areas of practice.
Two of this years’ visitees are a couple
who are both retired doctors. They have
enjoyed developing friendships with
other doctors through being visited
by Peer Visitor Program volunteers.
One reflects:
