Western Sydney farewells Dr Ros Crampton OAM

For 35 years Ros has been a formidable factor in emergency medicine, medical leadership, education, training and system-wide improvement across Western Sydney Local Health District.

Her service to Western Sydney began as an intern at Westmead Hospital in 1979 and following her training, Ros went on to serve as an Emergency Physician Staff Specialist at Westmead Hospital for some 21 years.

Throughout her time at Westmead, Ros was a passionate advocate for high-quality education and training for junior doctors. She became known as a respected teacher and leader, improving not only patient care, but the professional lives of colleagues across the district.

To celebrate her career, colleagues reflected on her “calm, commanding presence” with a “kind and caring approach to patients and their families”.

“Dr Crampton has had such a positive impact on myself and others in the way she led on the ED floor – always approachable, always calm under pressure,” said Westmead Hospital Senior Staff Specialist in Emergency Medicine, Dr Rachel Boddy.

“If you want to see her legacy, you only need to look at at emergency departments across Western Sydney and the many specialists who have learnt from her and continue to serve our community.”

Among her many achievements, Ros played a pivotal role in initiatives that continue to shape medical culture at Westmead. In 2008, she led the establishment of the district’s Forensic Medical Service, providing essential care to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

In 2012, she was instrumental in developing the Postgraduate Medical Education Centre and Simulation Centre at Westmead, strengthening patient safety systems and enhancing clinical skills training.

Ros has also held several senior leadership positions, including Chief Medical Advisor at Westmead Hospital and Director of Medical Services at both Westmead and Auburn hospitals.

In recognition of her outstanding service to medical administration, Ros was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2023.

Following her powerful and deeply moving keynote address at the district’s 2024 International Women’s Day event, the Ros Crampton Address was established. Each year, an inspiring woman from Western Sydney Local Health District is invited to share her story, continuing Ros’s legacy of leadership and influence.

Western Sydney Local Health District Board Chair, Ms Loretta di Mento paid tribute to Ros’s remarkable career.  

“Ros is known to all as a wonderful clinician, a generous colleague and a valued mentor,” Ms di Mento said.  

“Her contribution has been significant across so many areas; as a champion for education and professional development, as an advocate for better health services in our communities in Western Sydney and as a respected leader who continues to inspire.”

Dr Crampton farewells NSW Health after more than four decades of service. She concludes her career as Director of Clinical Education in Research and Education Network (REN), and Clinical Chair, Prevocational Training, NSW Health Education and Training Institute (HETI).