ABOUT NORTHERN RIVERS NEUROLOGY
Dr Ruaridh Cameron Smail

Northern Rivers Neurology was started in 2023 to provide a more local option for patients in need of neurological support in the area

It is currently a fly in/fly out service supplemented by telehealth reviews

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Despite the scottish gaelic spelling of my name  (Ruaridh  = Rory) I grew up in Surrey in the south of England. I obtained a first class honours degree in Medical Sciences (Neuroscience) from Worcester College, Oxford University in 2007. My thesis was regarding mapping white matter tracts to the visual association areas of the brain.

I completed my medical training at University College, London, receiving my degree in 2010.

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After two years working in the NHS, in 2012 I moved to Byron Bay and worked in Lismore hospital. Though I had intended to stay for a year, I fell in love with the region and the country and I decided to complete my specialist training in Australia.

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After physician training in Coffs Harbour and St George Hospital, Sydney, I completed my neurology training at St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, and Royal North Shore Hospital.

My fellowship and subsequent Masters of Philosophy research related to the study of migraines and peripheral nerve excitability studies. My studies also focused on the new migraine therapies which arrived in 2018.

In 2021, I returned to the UK to complete a fellowship in Stroke medicine at Charing Cross Hospital, London for 18 months, returning to work in Sydney in October 2022.

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I see patients in private rooms at Sydney North Neurology and Neurophysiology (www.snnn.com.au). I provide locum consultant services at Royal North Shore Hospital.

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Though I have the greatest experience in stroke, peripheral nerve disorders and headaches, I enjoy being a general neurologist, and have a broad training in all subspecialties of neurology. My emphasis is on clear communication and evidence based investigations and treatment for the complaint. I do not pursue unnecessary, expensive or invasive tests or procedures which I do not think would be of benefit.

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Throughout my career I have enjoyed teaching, and have received a clinical associate lecturer position at University of Sydney whilst at Royal North Shore, as well as teaching UNSW students in previous years. I have received teaching awards for my efforts, and I try and share my love of clinical neurology.

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Outside of work, I met my now wife Tori in Byron Bay, and got married in the region in 2020. I enjoy playing and watching sport, including all the water sports Byronshire has to offer. We love to travel and explore new places and experiences.