Dr Jacob Twiss.

Jacob Twiss is recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) as a Specialist in both Respiratory and Sleep Medicine for children and young people. His roles in public (Starship since 2005) and private (NZRSI since 2012) practice give him broad experience in children’s respiratory and sleep health ranging from relatively mild but troublesome symptoms to severe life limiting disease. He is also able to draw on his own experiences as parent and patient.

Jacob strives to establish a partnership model of care with parents and young people, involving them in informed decision making regarding investigation and treatment. Symptoms are common in young children sometimes making it a challenge to distinguish the bothersome from worrisome underlying disease. His goals focus on reducing symptoms, uncovering causes and minimising risk, all whilst avoiding unnecessary invasive tests and treatment where possible. Sometimes a careful watch and wait approach is best.

After graduating from Auckland Medical School, Jacob trained as a Paediatrician, Respiratory and Sleep Specialist in NZ and Australia achieving accreditation by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 2004, 2005 and 2007 respectively. He trained in flexible bronchoscopy in NZ and the US. Along the way he has also worked as a General Paediatrician, Emergency Department Physician, and Adolescent Health Consultant. He spent his 2018 sabbatical visiting paediatric long term ventilation programmes in Queensland, Colorado and London. Jacob has co-authored many national and international clinical guidelines and trained as Sleep Laboratory Accreditor for the National Association of Testing Authorities.

Whilst his focus has been on clinical practice he has also engaged in research, teaching and leadership roles. He completed a PhD in childhood bronchiectasis (severe chronic lung infection) with the University of Auckland in 2010. Other roles have included Lead Clinician and Laboratory Clinical Director of the Starship Respiratory Service, Honorary Senior Lecturer at University of Auckland, Australasian Sleep Association Paediatric and Clinical Committees (co-chair & member), NZ Paediatric Sleep Clinical Network, Starship Chief Resident, Starship Clinical Board, Resuscitation and Medication Safety Committees, RACP Trainees Committee (chair) and NZ Resident Doctors Association (Auckland President).

Qualifications: MbChb, RACP, PhD, BHB, DCH