How One Radiologist Is Transforming Medical Education

For more than two decades, Dr Virginia Saxton has combined clinical excellence with a deep commitment to service. As Director of Medical Imaging at The Mercy Hospital for Women, she has dedicated her career to improving care for women while mentoring the next generation of radiologists.

Beyond the hospital, Virginia runs a series of online obstetric and gynaecological imaging courses that prepare radiology registrars for their specialist examinations. Rather than charging for her expertise, participants donate the course fee directly to one of three charities supporting vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. It's an initiative that has raised significant funds, inspired generosity among young doctors and demonstrated that education can create impact far beyond the classroom.

We spoke with Virginia about her career, what continues to motivate her and the values that guide her work.

Tell us about your career journey.

I completed my medical training in England at Oxford University and King's College Hospital before undertaking a fellowship in radiology at The Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. During that year, I met my husband.

We later returned to England while he completed his doctoral studies, and it was there that our three children were born. When we moved back to Australia, an opportunity arose at The Mercy Hospital for Women. Although I had limited experience in obstetric and gynaecological imaging, I learnt on the job and quickly discovered how much I enjoyed the specialty.

After four years, I became Head of Department and later an examiner in obstetric and gynaecological imaging for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists.

As an examiner, I found myself constantly being asked to conduct mock viva examinations for registrars. That led me to develop a dedicated teaching course designed not only to prepare candidates for their exams but also to make them safer and more confident in their everyday reporting.

When COVID arrived, I moved the course online. Today I teach around 10 Saturdays each year, with registrars joining from across Australia and occasionally overseas.

What inspires you in your work?

I went into medicine because I loved science and wanted to help people at a time when they were vulnerable and unwell. That hasn't changed.

Hospitals can be frightening places, and anything I can do to help a patient receive an accurate diagnosis while also feeling safer and less anxious is a privilege.

The online teaching began because there was a gap in obstetric and gynaecological imaging education, but it took on an even greater purpose when I realised it could also raise money for charity. Those two goals—education and generosity—continue to motivate me.

I've visited each of the charities I support and seen firsthand the extraordinary work they do with some of the world's poorest communities. Seeing that impact keeps me going.

One of the most rewarding aspects has been watching the ripple effect among younger doctors. The donation model encourages them to think beyond themselves and their immediate concerns. Some tell me it's the best they've ever felt registering for a medical course. Others choose to donate more than required because they've connected with the cause.

One experience that particularly stayed with me was meeting a Kenyan doctor who was inspired by the fact that I sponsor the education of an orphan in Kenya. She went on to support a teenage girl through secondary school in her own hometown. Moments like that bring me enormous joy.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I'd probably offer a few pieces of advice.

First, invest time in understanding yourself and others. Books like The Five Love Languages and personality or leadership assessments can provide valuable insights that help you navigate relationships, make wiser career decisions and handle difficult seasons with greater resilience.

Second, learn to value the ordinary moments. We often wait for life's major milestones, but much of our happiness comes from appreciating everyday experiences.

I'd also remind myself that everyone has unique gifts. There is a contribution only you can make, even if it isn't immediately obvious. Keep going—it becomes clearer over time.

Life will inevitably include setbacks, but those challenges are often what shape our character. They teach patience, resilience and compassion in ways success never can.

Finally, remember that many people who appear confident and successful are carrying insecurities or loneliness that aren't visible. Approach others with kindness, and never lose your sense of gratitude for what you already have.

Is there a philosophy you live by?

Three simple ideas guide me every day:

• There is more joy in giving than receiving.
• Love the person in front of you.
• Find the gold in every person.

Those principles shape how I approach my work, my relationships and the opportunities I have to serve others.

What are you currently watching, reading or listening to?

I don't watch television and I'm not on social media, but I've recently enjoyed several books that have challenged and inspired me.

Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet is a fascinating leadership book that also offers a remarkable insight into life aboard a submarine.

It Is Finished by Darrell Johnson is a thoughtful collection of reflections on the death of Jesus that deeply moved me and renewed my desire to live generously.

An Improbable Friendship by Anthony David tells the extraordinary true story of a friendship between a Palestinian woman and a Jewish woman. It's a powerful reminder that understanding and genuine friendship can flourish even amid profound disagreement.

I also enjoyed The Love Language That Matters Most by Gary Chapman, Lee Parrott and Leslie Parrott, which builds on the original Five Love Languages by exploring how personality shapes the way we express and receive care. It's full of practical insights for strengthening relationships, including in the workplace.

One podcast I regularly return to is The Salisbury Organist with Ben Maton. He performs on historic organs in beautiful English country churches, weaving together music, history and architecture. I find it deeply restorative—a reminder to slow down and appreciate beauty.