Medical Science: Dr Dyandra Parikesit

Dr Dyandra Parikesit graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Melbourne in 2009 and now works as a urologist at Universitas Indonesia Hospital, one of Indonesia’s premier teaching hospitals. He has set his sights on creating a legacy in the field of urology in Indonesia.

Why the University of Melbourne?

There are various reasons why I chose the University of Melbourne for my double degree program.

To begin with, The University of Melbourne is frequently ranked among the top universities in the world. Its reputation in various academic sectors can entice students to seek high-quality education and research possibilities.

Second, The University of Melbourne is noted for its research contributions across different disciplines. It allows for more in-depth learning and research while connecting with world-renowned specialists in their field.

Finally, The University's alumni network can help you make vital connections and develop your profession.

Tell us about your current role.

I am a urologist at Universitas Indonesia Hospital, one of Indonesia's premier teaching hospitals. Regularly, I treat patients with urinary tract stones, prostate issues, and various other instances related to my area. I also instruct medical students and residents through lectures, case studies, and simulations.

How did your time at the University of Melbourne help prepare you for your current role?

My time at the University of Melbourne helped me improve my communication skills with people from all walks of life; I learned to be clearer and more direct while communicating.

Studying there also helped me become more resourceful in problem-solving; this skill assisted me in identifying the problem and attempting to consider different points of view to fix it. When asking or answering medical questions, I know where to look and how to get the information.

Being a doctor required me to effectively manage my time so that all patients, paperwork, administrative tasks, teaching, and managing organisations could be completed effectively; this skill was also honed while studying there.

What drives you to do your best at work?

I want to be the best version of myself, not just for myself but also for my family; I want to strike a work-life balance and eventually retire.

To that end, I'm incredibly motivated and driven to work as hard as possible. I also aim to leave a legacy in the field of Urology in Indonesia when I retire, having served as many patients as possible before then.

What does a normal day at work look like for you?

I normally arrive at the hospital at 8:30 a.m., open my emails, and respond to several of them. I then proceed to perform rounds in the inpatient ward, where some patients had their operation yesterday, others are scheduled to have one today, and others are being seen for a urologic consultation by another specialist.

After that, I go to the outpatient clinic to see patients, where I spend time explaining and discussing their conditions and possible alternative treatments, as there are usually 10-18 patients daily. I grab lunch while waiting for the operating team to set up the patients and equipment for surgery. A typical day includes 1-3 procedures.

After that, I'll finish answering emails, teaching or talking with medical students, and doing other administrative tasks like meetings (I'm on the hospital's education committee). After finishing at Universitas Indonesia Hospital, I returned to my private practice four days a week.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

I enjoy Oscar Wilde's counsel/quote, "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." This advice urges people to embrace their individuality and authenticity rather than trying to adapt to others' expectations or norms. It reminds us that everyone has unique abilities, qualities, and perspectives that make them valuable and unique.