For Dr Scott Milan (BMBS(Hons) ’05), rural medicine is more than a career — it’s a calling. After beginning his professional life as a medical laboratory scientist in a small country town, Dr Milan witnessed firsthand the critical role that doctors play in rural communities. That spark inspired him to pursue medicine at Flinders University, where he joined one of the earliest rural clinical training programs.
“Flinders was doing something unique — placing students directly into regional settings for meaningful, hands-on learning,” says Dr Milan. “It laid the foundation for everything I do today.”
Now based in Mount Gambier as a GP and owner of Hawkins Medical Clinic, Dr Milan has spent almost two decades strengthening rural health services. His career has included more than 120,000 patient consultations, the mentorship of over 70 trainees, and leadership roles in clinical education.
“Rural people are loyal, welcoming and deeply appreciative,” he says. “It’s an honour to care for the community in which you live and grow.”
As a Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Tutor in the South Australia Rural Medical (SARM) program, Dr Milan is helping shape the future of rural medicine right from his hometown.
“The fact students can now stay local for their entire medical education is revolutionary,” he says. “It’s a game changer for building and retaining a skilled rural workforce.”
Dr Milan’s zeal lies in teaching, particularly in regional contexts. “I’m passionate about passing on the knowledge gained from decades of rural practice. Rural medicine is demanding, yes, but it allows doctors to use the full scope of their training.”
His dedication extends beyond borders. When not in Mount Gambier, Dr Milan and his wife volunteer as ship-based doctors in remote Papua New Guinea, delivering essential medical care where it’s needed most. One day, he hopes to take Flinders students with him to experience tropical medicine and learn to rely on clinical judgment in low-resource settings.
As he gradually transitions from full-time consulting to a focus on mentoring and service, Dr Milan remains deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of doctors.
“Rural medicine is incredibly rewarding — you get to know your patients as people, not just cases,” he reflects. “And the skills Flinders gave me — critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability — are exactly what rural doctors need most.”