A young Mandurah medical student will be one of the largest intake of rural and regional students into the University of Western Australia this year.
The university hopes that the boom in regional and rural applications will put a dent in WA’s chronic doctor shortage.
A record 105 students from across the state, including Mandurah but also from Kununurra, Broome, Carnarvon and Tom Price in the north, the Wheatbelt towns of Bruce Rock, Cuballing, Merredin, Wickepin and Wubin, Kalgoorlie and Esperance in the Goldfields and many southern regional centres and towns, will study medicine as UWA celebrates the 60th anniversary of the University of WA Medical School.
Chloe Kirk, 20, said she has wanted to be a dcotr since she was 11 years old.
“I think the personal nature of a doctor and the way that they can develop such intimate and trusting relationships with patients is was what appealed to me most,” Ms Kirk said.
“Being able to help people when they feel vulnerable is a real privilege.
“I’m excited to be part of a big movement and seeing all of us students all venture out into remote areas of Australia will be great.
“I think the disparity in health between rural areas and metro areas is disheartening to see, but knowing we can go out there and make a difference is inspiring.”
UWA Professor Wendy Erber said the rural doctor shortage was an increasing concern in WA with many remote towns needing access to more doctors to ensure a high standard of health in the community.
“This record intake of rural students at UWA is good news for WA as many of these students upon graduation are likely to become medical practitioners in remote areas,” Ms Erber said.
UWA Rural Support Coordinator Sue Pougnault said it was pleasing to see so many students from small and remote towns who are passionate about making a difference to health in WA.
“We are looking forward to welcoming these students into a really exciting and rewarding teaching program, where they will learn about the latest advances in medicine,” Ms Pougnault said.
“Aside from helping the students in their fields, the program will also help increase the number of practitioners that are able to offer support in remote communities.”
