Talking Research: Research in Paramedic Primary Care - Celeita Williams Artwork

The Australasian College of Paramedicine

The Australasian College of Paramedicine, or the College, is a member-based not-for-profit that focuses on the needs of Paramedics and Student Paramedics throughout Australia and New Zealand. With a core emphasis on continued professional development (CPD), the College has launched two podcast series, Student Talk and The Debrief. Student Talk is led by the College Student Committee and focuses on areas specific to student paramedics. This includes discussions with knowledgeable professionals about specific areas of paramedicine to study tips and everything in between. The Debrief is all about the world of paramedicine from case studies to life experiences to wellbeing and the future of the field. Any and all topics are on the table! Hosted by a range of paramedicine professionals with a wealth of knowledge and experience, this podcast is designed for anyone, at any stage, of their paramedicine career and beyond.

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The Australasian College of Paramedicine

Talking Research: Research in Paramedic Primary Care - Celeita Williams

June 25, 2026 • The Australasian College of Paramedicine • Season 3 • Episode 3

0:00 | 50:35

Dr Celeita Williams DHSc - Love what matters

In 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 DHSc

Extended Care Paramedic - Otaki Medical Centre
Intensive Care Paramedic - St John New Zealand
Senior Lecturer - Auckland University of Technology

Derek Collings-Hughes

Senior Lecturer - The University of Notre Dame Australia
Paramedic
PhD Student
College Research Advisory Committee member