Focusing on education and professional development - the cornerstone of success for Di Loubey, practice manager extraordinaire

Dianne (Di) Loubey is a Vic rural practice manager whose extraordinary contribution to GP training was acknowledged last year through ACRRM’s inaugural Outstanding Contribution to Rural Practice Management Award.

When presenting Di with this award, ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin praised her commitment:

"Dianne Loubey’s extensive experience and dedication create a supportive environment for ACRRM registrars and patients.
“Her focus on education and professional development is a cornerstone of her success and by fostering a culture of continuous learning, she not only supports the skills and knowledge of registrars but enhances the overall quality of care in her community and beyond.
“Her management practices ensure that healthcare service remains accessible, effective, and tailored to the unique needs of rural populations."

GPSA’s Communications Manager Pauline Ingham tracked this busy lady down to ask her about the award and all things practice management.

What would you like to say to Australia’s practice managers, and more broadly, the supervision teams they underpin?

Always reach out for support and continually seek opportunities to expand your knowledge.

"You can never stop learning. Also always be ready to embrace technology or you will get left behind. 
"No one can know everything, especially in such a dynamic industry that evolves constantly - particularly in areas like Services Australia and digital health."

How have you arrived at your role as a practice manager (PM)? 

"My healthcare career began in 1980 as a dental therapist with the School Dental Service. After graduating in 1982, I worked at a small clinic in East Geelong before being seconded to Colac, my hometown, where I provided dental care to children in a mobile clinic. Our van travelled to primary schools across an 80km radius, often staying overnight in remote areas - a unique experience as a Drive-In Drive-Out (DIDO) worker.
"As a dental therapist, I provided examinations, restorations, radiology, extractions, and oral health education to children aged 5 to 15. After a decade in this role, I transitioned to general practice reception in 1995, seeking work that allowed me to stay closer to home while raising young children.
"A few months into my new role, I was promoted to practice manager and became an active member of the Australian Association of Practice Managers (AAPM). Attending my first AAPM conference in 1996 opened doors to valuable industry connections, shaping the next phase of my career."

How have your previous roles prepared you for your work as a PM?

"My background as a dental therapist provided a strong foundation in health, from anatomy and infection control to medical terminology—knowledge that proved invaluable when I transitioned to general practice reception. Being a mum helped, too!
"Before starting as a receptionist, I completed a TAFE computing course, coincidentally alongside two future colleagues. When the clinic introduced its first computers in 1985, my new skills were put to immediate use.
"Since 1985, I’ve also managed the accounts for my husband’s building business—a role I still hold. This experience gave me hands-on expertise in finance, HR, and workplace safety, all of which have been key in my journey to becoming a practice manager."

What does GPSA offer our PM members? Why should PMs join GPSA? 

"GPSA is an invaluable resource for accurate, up-to-date information. I regularly rely on their contract templates and pay calculators to streamline administrative tasks and, most importantly, ensure compliance."

How can PMs get the most out of GPSA?

"The best way for practice managers to maximise GPSA’s value is simply by becoming a member and regularly visiting the website. The website offers a wealth of resources on supervision, education, and teaching, supporting every member of the supervision team. The GPSA team is incredibly approachable, and it’s reassuring to know you can always call and speak with a real person for tailored advice. The CEO even makes herself available!"

What is the aspect of GPSA that you get the most from?   

"The extensive range of resources has always been incredibly valuable, but more recently, I’ve found immense benefit in connecting with fellow practice managers at GPSA. Having experienced practice managers like Leonie and Jen on the GPSA team is invaluable—they truly understand the challenges we face."

What do you think are the greatest concerns in the realm of supervision for our members?   

The most significant concern is the additional workload that supervision entails, especially when both supervisor and registrar are involved in an after-hours urgent care and hospital roster. 

"This burden is more manageable in larger practices where supervision can be shared among multiple practitioners. I think supervision is more challenging in a rural practice." 

Finally, do you have any comments or observations for the sector that you would like to share?

"I would like to see GPSA actively encouraging newly Fellowed GPs to take on secondary supervision roles within their practices.
"Newly Fellowed GPs bring at least two years of full-time general practice experience, often complemented by specialised skills in areas such as emergency medicine, women’s health, or child health. Their recent exam experience gives them unique insight into the challenges faced by registrars in training, making them an invaluable source of knowledge and support."