Dr. Smita Samuelraj

08/03/2026

In 2024, 322 women and 156 men died from asthma in Australia. That means women are dying from asthma at more than twice the rate of men.

No death from asthma is acceptable, and this gender gap isn't new. Older women, in particular, remain at greater risk of severe outcomes, yet asthma care and funding often fail to reflect that.

We need a stronger national focus on prevention, improved access to medicines, and targeted support for the communities most impacted. Because asthma is not just a nuisance - it can be deadly.

17/01/2026

Sunday Appointments Now Available

To help make appointments easier to fit around busy weeks, I’ll be offering Sunday morning appointments from 1 February 2026.

🕗 Sundays | 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

📅 Book online via HotDoc:
https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/duncraig-WA-6023/duncraig-medical-centre/doctors/dr-smita-samuelraj-4

📞 Or call Duncraig Medical Centre on (08) 9246 9922

I hope this extra availability helps improve access and flexibility for patients who find weekdays difficult. I look forward to seeing you on Sundays.

Please note there is no nurse available on weekends

Dr Smita Samuelraj

09/01/2026

Sharing this useful post about oral iron supplements

At Duncraig medical centre we also offer iron infusions for people who prefer them

what tablets do I take?
The main ingredient for an iron tablet is Iron sulphate / gluconate / fumarate / bisglycinate. These are termed 'iron salts' and there is no real difference between them. These ingredients are the basis of most iron tablets or liquids - the rest is marketing.

What dose?
The important bit: - its all about the amount of 'elemental iron' i.e. the dose:
If a 200mg tablet, you need to read the ingredients on the back to see the actual 'dose' of 'elemental iron it may be the dose is 65mg. The table here is very helpful.
Note there is a LOT of marketing but in reality little if any difference in the tablets, those promoting 'haem' iron professes better absorption but in reality when tested in clinical trials no benefit has been shown. So go with the well proven tablets - below.

WHAT DO YOU NEED
If your ferritin < 30 then you are 1000mg behind on iron in the body.
Treatment is 50-100mg elemental iron once a day. Most people tolerate this dose and one tablet a day is enough. The problem is that you only absorb about 10% of the dose so about 6-10mg per day - about 200mg -250mg per month. So you need a minimum of 6 months to get replenished (1000mg +)

If you do get side effects then stop for a few days then try half the dose or a tablet alternative days. Overall, while there may more absorbed per day as you are only taking half the dose the absorption per month is 150-200mg.

Struggling to find which iron tablets to choose? Checkout the information from Lifeblood Australia

31/12/2025

As we come to the end of another year, I’ve been taking a moment to reflect on the past 12 months. It has been a year filled with meaningful conversations, shared challenges, small wins, and the privilege of walking alongside so many of you on your health journeys.

I want to sincerely thank my patients and families for the trust you place in me and in our practice. Your openness, resilience, and commitment to your wellbeing continue to inspire me every day. It is truly a privilege to be part of your care.

To my colleagues and the wider healthcare team, thank you for your support, teamwork, and dedication throughout the year.

As we look ahead to 2026, I wish you and your loved ones a year filled with good health, balance, and moments that matter. May the new year bring fresh energy, hope, and opportunities to prioritise what’s important to you.

Warm wishes,
Dr Smita Samuelraj

14/09/2025

Just spent the weekend at the AMS Menopause Annual Conference in Fremantle 🌊✨.
It was a fantastic opportunity to update my knowledge, hear from leading experts, and connect with colleagues passionate about women’s health.

I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned back to my patients and community — helping women navigate menopause with the most up-to-date, evidence-based care. 💜

13/05/2025

😷 Feeling unwell? Please wear a mask when visiting our clinic 😷

If you have a cough, sore throat, runny nose, or any cold/flu symptoms, we kindly ask that you wear a mask while in the waiting room and during your appointment.

💡 Why?
Wearing a mask helps to:
✅ Protect vulnerable patients around you
✅ Reduce the spread of respiratory viruses (like the flu, COVID-19 & RSV)
✅ Keep our staff and community safe

Let’s work together to slow the spread of illness this season.
Thank you for helping keep Duncraig Medical Centre safe for everyone.

13/05/2025

📣 Flu + COVID-19 Vaccines Available Now at Duncraig Medical Centre! 📣

Flu vaccines free for all WA residents for May and June!

🛡️ Protect yourself, your family, and your community this winter.
Whether you're a busy parent, a grandparent, or caring for someone vulnerable — vaccination helps keep everyone safer.

💉 Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for all age groups.
Our team is experienced, caring, and ready to support people from all cultural backgrounds.

✅ Helps prevent severe illness
✅ Safe for children, adults, and older adults
✅ Quick and easy appointment process

📍 Book now at Duncraig Medical Centre
📞 Call us on (08) 9246 9922

Let’s keep our community strong and healthy this season.

13/02/2025

Could I request a favour?

Can you write a google review for me under Duncraig medical centre?

06/02/2025

Sharing a lovely pregnancy support service

Discover Holistic Pregnancy Support with Dr. Talia Steed. Offering personalised consultations, prenatal yoga, guided meditations, and wellness tools to help you feel calm, confident, and connected during every stage of your pregnancy journey.

31/12/2024

As 2024 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank all my wonderful patients for trusting me with your care this year. It has been a privilege to support your health journeys, celebrate your wins, and work through challenges together.

Here's to a fresh start in 2025 filled with good health, happiness, and fulfilling goals. Let’s continue striving toward wellness and creating positive habits for a brighter future.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and joyful holiday season! 🎄✨

Warm regards,
Dr. Smita Samuelraj

22/10/2024

Goodbye Melbourne! Thank you for 5 days of Menopause learning at the and wonderful weather! My brain is full and I can't wait to start using what I've learned in General Practice. I may even consider IMF20 in Rio!

To my followers, if you want to discuss perimenopause or menopause challenges, please book a long consult (not std)

20/10/2024

Something I learned today:

Lots of women struggle with weight gain/loss in perimenopause or menopause. Did you know that SLEEP is very important in determining weight?

If you have poor sleep
- less duration
- poor quality
- frequent wakening
it greatly impacts our ability to make healthy food choices / our cravings for high calorie comfort foods increases the next day and causes more fatigue which impacts our willingness to exercise!

Assessing and treating sleep problems in midlife is complex and requires a holistic plan. Treatment is multi pronged
- lifestyle
- limit caffeine and alcohol
- reduce stress
- sleep hygiene
- assess and treat for mood disorders
- address and treat vasomotor symptoms (aka hot flushes) via hormonal and non-hormonal options
- sedatives are not for the long term
- short term melatonin may be appropriate