Dr Caroline Chin
Get to know Caroline Chin
Name: Caroline Chin
Qualifications: MBBS, Master of Medicine, FRACGP
Home Town: Perth, Western Australia
Current Location: Perth, Western Australia
Favourite foods:
I'm a huge foodie and coffee enthusiast (like most Australians!). If I had to choose one cuisine to eat every day, it would be Japanese. There’s so much variety, and the presentation is just beautiful. The Japanese are among the world’s longest-living people, and they practise ‘harahachibu’—eating until you’re 80% full. It’s a mindful approach to food and health that I really admire.
Favourite bands:
Tough question! I enjoy a wide range of genres—from classical (I play piano and guitar) to rock, indie, pop, and musical theatre.
Favourite movie:
I love films, and some of my close friends work in the industry, so I find the art of filmmaking fascinating. The last movie I watched was Flow, which won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. It’s a beautiful film about found family and overcoming adversity—such a lovely message.
1. Could you share a personal story or experience that inspired you to become a doctor?
I never seriously considered Medicine as a career until my final year of high school, when my grandmother became very unwell. We were incredibly close, so I spent a lot of time in hospital that year, which exposed me to the inner workings of the healthcare system. That experience sparked my interest in pursuing Medicine.
2. What were some pivotal moments during your education or training that shaped your current approach to medicine?
One particularly formative experience for me was working in the Kimberley during my GP training. I encountered many conditions that I wouldn’t have seen in a metropolitan setting. It pushed me to become an independent thinker and taught me the importance of thinking outside the box.
3. Beyond your formal education, are there any additional learning experiences or ongoing education pursuits that have influenced your medical practice?
Outside of formal education, I spend a lot of time reading—everything from autobiographies and self-development books to hard sci-fi and fantasy. Reading widely has broadened my worldview. I’m also a passionate traveller and have visited many countries since my early twenties. Travelling offers valuable insight into different cultures and healthcare systems, and it’s made me appreciate just how fortunate we are in Australia to have the system we do—it’s something we need to safeguard for future generations.
4. How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in your field?
I keep up to date by reading widely, listening to podcasts, engaging in conversations with colleagues and peers, and attending workshops, meetings and seminars on a regular basis.
5. Can you discuss a particular area of interest within your specialty that you’re passionate about, and explain why it matters to you and your patients?
I'm deeply interested in the intersection of chronic pain and trauma. These areas are so closely connected, and I believe healthcare needs to take a more holistic approach than it traditionally has. I also have a special interest in women’s health, particularly in managing endometriosis pain. It’s a common but often underdiagnosed condition that can be incredibly debilitating. Thankfully, it's now starting to get the recognition it deserves.
6. In what ways do you tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of each patient?
Active listening, an open mind, and asking the right questions are all key. Understanding each patient's life context is essential—everyone’s situation is different, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
7. Can you share an example of how you’ve gone above and beyond for a patient?
Honestly, I try to go above and beyond for all my patients every day—and I’m happy to do it. I’ve been on the other side as a patient, so I know how vulnerable it can feel. Having a healthcare professional who genuinely cares can make a world of difference. This might mean calling patients after hours with important results or checking in on someone I know is going through a tough time.
8. Are there any achievements or projects in your career that you’re particularly proud of?
During my registrar years at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst, Sydney, I was involved in a pilot project to set up the first homeless outreach program. At the beginning, it was just me and a nurse providing GP services on the streets—visiting day centres, seeing patients directly on the street, and even transporting acutely unwell patients to emergency departments when needed. It was raw, and sometimes a bit hairy, but I loved being part of something that truly made a difference. That program has since grown to include several outreach teams and clinics.
9. Have you received any feedback or testimonials from patients that have been especially meaningful to you?
Too many to count, but the handwritten cards with heartfelt messages I receive from patients around Christmas are always incredibly special. Knowing I’ve had a positive impact on someone’s life makes everything worthwhile.
10. Can you describe how a new patient can start their journey with you? What steps should they expect?
I believe we’re only as good as our last consult. When starting their journey with me, new patients can expect to be heard—without judgement—regardless of their circumstances. I work collaboratively with my patients to find solutions that are tailored to their individual health concerns.
11. Are there any recent articles or blog posts you’ve written that offer insight into your medical philosophy or personal interests?
Not at the moment, but I’d love to write more in the future—particularly around topics like women's health, pain management, and holistic approaches to care.