We recently caught up with Eliza Faulk, Partner in Wotton Kearney’s Health practice, to learn more about her story and what drives her work.
Eliza recently joined Wotton Kearney’s Sydney office along with her team of six, bringing more than 25 years’ experience in insurance and health law across private practice and senior corporate management roles.
In this Q&A, Eliza shares what kept her focused on medical negligence for more than two decades, the pressures facing healthcare clients today, and a couple of things that might just surprise you!
Could you share a little about your career journey and what led you to specialise in health and medical negligence?
I started my legal career in professional indemnity insurance and loved the mix of law and learning about different professions. I’ve always been fascinated with medicine (some might call me a borderline hypochondriac!) and no two cases are alike. I have such respect for the medical profession who are often working under enormous stress.
That stress can become overwhelming when they are faced with litigation or disciplinary action. I like to think that by assisting them through that process that I am helping them focus on what they do best – which is saving lives!
You’ve brought a talented team of six with you – what does success look like for you and your team?
Success for me and my team means achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. It means strong collaboration and supporting each other so that we can provide consistent high-quality advice our clients – both the insurer and the medical professional.
Recently we achieved a judgment in favour of a doctor, and he burst into (happy) tears when he heard the result! He was so grateful with the support and advice we had provided. That to me means we are on the right track…
What trends or emerging risks do you think will be most significant for insurers and healthcare providers in the years ahead?
I see the impact of social media and the spread of medical misinformation as having a significant impact in years ahead.
We are seeing a rise in claims from patients who refuse to follow medical advice or have unrealistic expectations, and then blame the medical profession for failing to provide enough advice or warnings.
This is impacting all areas from the rise in free birthing and parents refusing medical treatment for their children, to plastic surgery patients expecting to look like a filtered Instagram image.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
After being on the rowing P&F (Parents and Friends Association) at my son’s school for the last couple of years, I am fluent in rowing lingo. I know the difference between the bow and stroke seats – that your split is very important and catching a crab is really bad!
Looking ahead, what’s a professional or personal goal you’re excited to pursue?
Professionally, I am excited to help grow the Wotton Kearney health practice and the people within it. The team has been incredibly supportive and fostering a real sense of collaboration. I’m excited to continue building on long-term client partnerships and exploring new opportunities!
On a more personal note, this is my last year with a child in high school (and last year of school fees!) and I am looking forward to more travel. The Camino trail in Spain is at the top of my bucket list…
Connect with Eliza
If you would like to find out more about how Wotton Kearney’s Health practice can support your organisation with medical negligence and health law matters, please reach out to Eliza Faulk.