About

Hi,

I’m Dr Jess Santos.

I am a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and a specialist in primary care. One of the things I love most about being a rural GP is the “cradle to grave” nature of my work. It is a privilege to walk alongside my patients through every stage of life—from supporting families before a baby is born to providing care through to the end of life.

My Clinical Focus

I have a particular interest in supporting women through pregnancy and the transition to motherhood. After the birth of my first child, I discovered the Neuroprotective Developmental Care (Possums) framework. It was such a helpful, evidence-based way of navigating breastfeeding and infant sleep challenges that I have integrated these skills into my practice to support other families through those early, often difficult, years.

I’ve completed a Diploma of Child Health, as well as further training in reproductive health, women’s health and mental health. I also hold advanced rural skills training in anaesthetics and advanced life support and am an endorsed ADHD prescriber.

Advocacy & Leadership

I am deeply passionate about ensuring our rural communities have access to high-quality healthcare. Much of my work outside the clinic is focused on this, whether I’m serving as the Chair of the Healthy North Coast PHN Clinical Council or mentoring the next generation of doctors as a GP Supervisor. I am also an alumna of the RACGP Future Leaders program and advocate for more women in leadership in roles.

Life in Hernani

When I’m not in the clinic or working on health advocacy, you’ll usually find me on our family cattle farm here in Hernani. I am an active community member with roles on the Hernani P&C and community hall.

A Note on Appointments

To ensure I can provide the best possible care to my current patients, I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients. I appreciate your understanding.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. UNSW 2012
Diploma of Child Health. Sydney Childrens Hospital Network 2014
Advanced Rural Skills Training – Anaesthesia. Joint Consultative Committee in Anaesthesia 2016
Fellowship of Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. RACGP 2018
Accreditation in Neuroprotective Developmental Care ‘Possums’. 2022
Focussed Psychological Strategies Skills Training. RACGP Rural 2022
National Certificate in Reproductive and Sexual Health for Doctors. Family Planning Alliance Australia. 2022
RACGP Future Leaders Program. 2023
Essential Skills in Medical Education. AMEE 2024
Women in Rural Health Leadership. 2024
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. 2025
AICD Governance Foundations for Not For Profit Directors. 2026