Since pursuing Medicine, I have established a few objectives for myself which I will stay true to my career as a qualified medical practitioner. The first is that I will ensure to always dedicate part of my working career to bettering the quality of and access to health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. This is of course influenced by the inequities my own family has faced and those of my Indigenous friends’ families as well. I continue to stay in touch with the health issues that exist in remote communities through my involvement with societies like the Rural Allied Health and Medical Society and the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association and I would like to extend this involvement to speak on issues and inspiring future Indigenous doctors.

Secondly, I would like to complete a rural placement in an Indigenous community. Not only would I gain valuable skills and experience due to the lack of health practitioners, I would have an opportunity to establish a strong relationship with the people of the community and work to re-gain their trust in the health system which has been degraded generation to generation. i understand that having a compassionate and understanding doctor in these communities is so incredibly important to creating better health outcomes of our people.

Further to a rural placement, I would like to practice back home in my regional area, Newcastle/Lake Macquarie or surrounding areas. It is really important to me that I go back to where I was raised and bring fresh knowledge and expertise wherever it is needed. Additionally, in every location worked I would gain valuable insight into the specific health needs of that community and adapt. I would think that my placements are studying in Sydney and then hopefully a rural location would prepare me well for this placement.

I have taken a specific interest in Obstetrics which may change during the course of my study as I am not limiting myself , however, I am very interested in having a had in facilitation the practice of ‘birthing in country’ which allows Indigenous women to have their babies on land where they feel comfortable and around their loved ones.

I would like to work in rural and regional areas where I can create good relationships and connection with the patients in that community and hopefully inspire the youth in those areas to also give back.

The first semester of my third year in medicine has been a transformative experience, marked by a significant increase in clinical exposure and hands-on learning. Compared to the previous year, where hospital visits were limited to once every fortnight, this year I have had the opportunity to spend three days a week at the hospital. This increased frequency has deepened my understanding of medical practice and patient care.

One of the most impactful parts of this semester was the Society and Health term, specifically focusing on HIV and sexual health at the Albion Centre. Here, I gained invaluable insights into the public health challenges posed by HIV. Observing the comprehensive care provided to patients, including counselling and support services, highlighted the multifaceted approach needed to manage this condition. The experience underscored the importance of addressing socio-cultural factors in healthcare, as these significantly influence patient outcomes and access to services.

At St. Vincent’s Hospital, I rotated through the cardiac and gastrointestinal systems departments. These rotations were crucial in understanding how socio-cultural factors impact health and disease management. For instance, I observed how lifestyle choices, socioeconomic status, and cultural beliefs affect the prevalence and progression of cardiac and gastrointestinal conditions. This understanding reinforced the need for culturally sensitive healthcare interventions that address these underlying determinants of health.

My time in the oncology and palliative care units at St. Vincent’s Hospital was particularly enlightening. Here, I learned the importance of multidisciplinary care in managing complex health conditions. The collaborative efforts of doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals were vital in providing holistic care to patients. This experience taught me that effective healthcare delivery extends beyond medical treatment to include emotional, psychological, and social support for patients and their families.

This semester has also been a period of substantial growth in my clinical skills. I have learned and practiced procedures such as drawing up and administering intramuscular and subcutaneous vaccinations, cannulation, drawing blood, performing per rectal (PR) examinations, and conducting breast examinations. These hands-on experiences have not only enhanced my technical abilities but also improved my confidence in performing clinical tasks.

Overall, this semester has been incredibly rewarding. The increased clinical exposure has solidified my commitment to medicine and enhanced my appreciation for the complexities of patient care. I have particularly enjoyed the time spent at the hospital, where theoretical knowledge is brought to life through practical application. This journey has reaffirmed my dedication to becoming a compassionate and competent healthcare professional, ready to address the diverse needs of my future patients.

I am profoundly grateful for the scholarship that has supported my learning journey. It has provided me with the financial stability to focus on my studies and take full advantage of the clinical experiences offered.