Hello, I’m Dr Caroline West. I’ve been a GP for more than 30 years and I have a particular interest in preventative health, women’s health, lifestyle medicine and helping people live well at any age. I think medicine has spent a long time focusing on what makes us sick, but I’m more interested in what keeps us well.
How we move, sleep, eat and connect with others, and whether we have purpose and meaning in our lives play a huge role in our health destiny. I believe little intentional healthy steps can make a big difference over time.
When it comes to health, I believe women want to be at the steering wheel with answers, trusted information and practical advice. They’re curious, motivated and doing their own research, but there is also so much noise to cut through.
In my career, I’ve worked across urban, rural and remote settings, including with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Aboriginal Health. I have just returned from a wonderful two years living in Bengaluru, India, working in women’s health. My broad experience has allowed me to see firsthand the challenges people face when accessing healthcare.
I’ve also been a health broadcaster for many years, presenting for some of Australia’s best-known television programs (60 Minutes, Beyond 2000, Catalyst, Good Medicine and Ask the Doctor), and I have written more than 1000 health features and columns. My aim has always been to translate the science and evidence into advice that feels accessible and achievable.
What I hope to bring to this column is clear, trusted information that helps you better understand your health and the steps towards looking after it.
Have a question for me? Email awwaskthedoctor@aremedia.com.au
While I can’t provide individual medical advice or answer every question, I’ll cover the health concerns that many women share.
5 ways I look after my health and wellbeing
I swim in the ocean
This brings together three of my favourite things: exercise, nature and friends. We have coffee afterwards, and being out in the ocean – seeing the fish, feeling the ocean swell and the wind – fires up all your senses.
I eat a Mediterranean-style diet
I’m reasonably good with my nutrition because it affects my energy level profoundly. I focus on colourful vegetables, fruit, lean proteins and lots of nuts. I’m a bit of a nutaholic.
I work on my social fitness
I try to be intentional about staying connected with my kids, my partner, my friends and my community. I’ll go to local talks, musical events or activities, and make an effort to keep that social side of my health going.
I’m trying to improve my sleep
Sleep is the area I personally need to work on most. I have cut out nearly all alcohol, minimise blue screens before bed and keep the lights dim around the house.
I play the ukulele
Playing the ukulele gave me an easy way back into music and brings together creativity, fun and social connection. We play together, we laugh and the energy in the room is wonderful.
Have a question for me? Email awwaskthedoctor@aremedia.com.au
This article originally appeared in the September 2026 issue of The Australian Women’s Weekly. Find the Ask the Doctor column every month in the magazine. Subscribe so you never miss an issue.
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