Sarah Blackwell, a proud Wiradjuri woman, traces her familial roots from the Mudgee area to the Wellington region of New South Wales, deep into Wiradjuri country. Despite her immediate family residing in Mt Druitt, Sarah’s upbringing unfolded on Darug and Gundungurra country in Penrith and the lower Blue Mountains region. This rich cultural environment has profoundly shaped Sarah’s outlook and fuelled her unwavering dedication to serving Indigenous communities within her medical career.

In 2023, Sarah embarked on a transformative journey by relocating to immerse herself in rural healthcare and forge meaningful connections with Indigenous communities. This pivotal decision marked a turning point in her path, igniting her passion for addressing healthcare disparities in these underserved areas. Fast forward to 2024, Sarah’s 12-month rural placement was extended, encompassing the final year of her medical studies. This extension solidifies her commitment to serving rural and Indigenous populations, as she completes the last years of her medical degree as a rural student.

Currently a fourth-year Medical Student at the University of Sydney, Sarah already holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science, has volunteered in many Indigenous programs and, is the current Aboriginal representative for her Rural health societies. Breaking barriers, she stands as one of the first members of her family to pursue higher education, driven by her profound dedication to rural health and Indigenous well-being.

As a Wiradyuri yinna (woman) studying in Dubbo, I’ve witnessed firsthand the health disparities affecting Indigenous communities. My goal is to specialize in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, advocating for culturally appropriate birthing guidelines to improve Indigenous maternal and infant health. However, this is far off dream and there are more important everyday actions I can do in my medical practice improve Indigenous health.

I will also advocate for inclusive healthcare education to challenge discriminatory practices and raise awareness of Indigenous health challenges. Additionally, I will educate myself on available services to address intergenerational trauma and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. I’m dedicated to building partnerships with local communities and elders to co-develop health initiatives tailored to diverse needs. This is because collaborative efforts are crucial and must transcend specialties and professions to create meaningful impacts.

My recent time in Darwin, travelling out to remote communities like Galiwinku, emphasised the importance of recognizing the diversity within Indigenous communities to tailor healthcare services to meet diverse needs. A place such as Galiwinku is very different to Wiradyuri country in rural NSW, and healthcare services must reflect this. I’m committed to creating culturally supportive healthcare programs that address unique community issues, ultimately improving the health of my future Indigenous patients.

My commitment to improving Indigenous health is rooted in understanding historical, cultural, and systemic factors. While aspiring to make a difference as an OBGYN, I embrace daily cultural competence, foster partnerships, engage in education and advocacy, and tailor healthcare services to contribute meaningfully to positive transformation.

As I reflect on the journey and outcomes of Semester 1 in my final year of medical school, I am struck by the immense growth and learning I have experienced. This semester has been both challenging and rewarding, shaping me into a more competent and confident future Doctor. Having completed my Elective in ObGYN, General Medicine block, and Surgical block, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and skills that I will carry with me throughout my career.

My elective provided a unique opportunity to explore a specialised area of medicine that I am passionate about, OBGYN. This period allowed me to delve deeper into specific clinical practices, engage with patients in a different setting being the NT and Sydney CBD, and work closely with experts in the field. The hands-on experience, coupled with the mentorship I received, enhanced my understanding of patient care from a holistic perspective. It was also a chance to see how different healthcare systems operate, broadening my horizons and preparing me for a diverse range of clinical environments. Particularly enriching was my time in remote Indigenous communities helping with Women’s Business.

The medicine block was a pivotal part of my semester, reinforcing my clinical acumen and diagnostic skills. Working in the hospital outpatient clinics in conjunction with the General medical Ward in Dubbo, I encountered a variety of patients with complex comorbidities, including a memorable case involving a 27 year-old female with recurrent pneumothoraces due to tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic condition. These experiences challenged me to think critically, apply my theoretical knowledge, and refine my patient management strategies. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team taught me the importance of communication and teamwork in delivering comprehensive care. I learned to appreciate the subtleties of patient interactions and the value of empathy in medical practice. While this was a challenging block for me, I feel like I came out of it with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that I will carry with me my entire career.

The surgical block was both intense and exhilarating. It was a period where I could see the immediate impact of medical interventions. Participating in surgeries, from pre-operative planning to post-operative care, gave me a profound appreciation for the precision and skill required in the operating room. I developed a deeper understanding of the anatomical and physiological concepts that underpin surgical practice. This block also tested my ability to perform under pressure and make quick, informed decisions especially when facing complications in the operating theatre or being questioned on my knowledge by consultants. The guidance from experienced surgeons and the camaraderie among the surgical team were instrumental in my learning process, making this my favourite experience as a medical student.

Outcomes and Personal Growth

The outcomes of this semester are multifaceted. Academically, I have solidified my knowledge base and honed my clinical skills. Practically, I have become more adept at patient assessment, diagnosis, and management. Personally, I have grown in confidence, resilience, and adaptability. Each block presented unique challenges that pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to strive for excellence.

This semester has also reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning. The dynamic nature of medicine means that there is always something new to discover, and I am more motivated than ever to stay curious and continue expanding my expertise.

Looking Ahead

As I move forward into the next semester and beyond, I carry with me the lessons learned and the experiences gained from this transformative period. I am excited to apply my skills in new settings, take on more responsibilities, and contribute to the health and well-being of my patients. The journey is far from over, but Semester 1 has laid a strong foundation for the doctor I aspire to be.

Reflecting on this semester, I am grateful for the opportunities, challenges, and support that have shaped my final year of medical school. Each experience has been a stepping stone towards becoming a compassionate, knowledgeable, and skilled physician, ready to make a positive impact in the field of medicine.