Talking Research: Research in Paramedic Primary Care - Celeita Williams

Dr Celeita Williams DHSc - Love what mattersIn this episode, Derek sits down with Dr Celeita Williams, paramedic, researcher, and primary care clinician based in Aotearoa New Zealand, to explore her remarkable journey from frontline ambulance work to research.Celeita shares how a passion for improving outcomes for older adults led her to investigate the often-overlooked link between continence concerns and falls. She walks us through her use of participatory action research to co-design a 14-question continence assessment tool for ambulance clinicians - a practical, accessible resource aimed at normalising conversations that have long been considered taboo.Celeita also reflects on the realities of balancing clinical work with academia, the value of primary care as a paramedic practice space, and why prescribing may be the missing link in advancing the profession. She closes with some heartfelt advice for anyone considering the research journey: find something that lights a fire in your belly and always love what matters.Presented by:Dr Celeita Williams DHScExtended Care Paramedic - Otaki Medical CentreIntensive Care Paramedic - St John New ZealandSenior Lecturer - Auckland University of TechnologyDerek Collings-HughesSenior Lecturer - The University of Notre Dame AustraliaParamedicPhD StudentCollege Research Advisory Committee member