I think everyone should have equal access to all health services. But we are facing a health care gap in rural and remote areas, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and refugee health. We should work together to reach the best outcomes and help close this gap.
I deliberately sought out an Aboriginal health training post at Pius X Aboriginal Medical Service in Moree. Aboriginal health has its challenges, with a wide range and complexity of cases, but it’s both challenging and rewarding.
In general working here is both different and enjoyable because it’s a community-owned health service. You’re not just the doctor at the clinic, you’re part of the community.
It’s great to work alongside Aboriginal health workers and nurses, there are a lot of services here on site and we do outreach community programs in Moree, Toomelah and Mungindi.
Working closely with the Aboriginal community at the AMS has been an incredible, inspirational, and heart-warming experience. People are smart and once they know that you understand and care, then you gain their trust and that is a big gift and a big responsibility too. I feel blessed to be part of the community.
I encourage all doctors to experience working in a rural setting, and in Aboriginal health, you provide holistic medicine to each patient, their family, and the wider community.
As rural medical practitioners, you are required to provide a wider scope of practice compared to cities and while managing different types of medicine. You do more, you learn more, and there is no doubt that you become a better independent doctor!
