In a bid to champion commitment to rural and remote medical practice, the NT Regional Training Hub’s 2023 bursary program has been a source of support for Northern Territory (NT) medical students and pre-vocational doctors.

The program provides access to targeted professional development, conference attendance, and the alleviation of the financial burdens associated with specialty training applications and interviews.

Among the recipients of this year’s bursary were Dr. Emma Chaplyn and Dr. Jennifer Barton, whose dedication to NT rural healthcare led them to the 2023 Rural Medicine Australia (RMA) conference held in nipaluna (Hobart).

For Dr. Chaplyn and Dr. Barton, RMA proved to be an instrumental platform for networking with like-minded professionals. Embarking on their journey into rural generalist training, the conference provided them with insights into diverse training opportunities and firsthand experiences from their peers. The connections forged during RMA are not only crucial for professional growth but also contribute to building a supportive community of future rural healthcare leaders.

The RMA conference offered an array of highlights for the doctors, including engaging speakers and workshops. A standout session was Dr. Jasmine Banner’s presentation on women’s healthcare in the Big Rivers region, which left a lasting impression. This session underscored the significance of rural generalists and the vital role they play in addressing healthcare needs in remote areas. Dr. Banner’s insights served as a source of pride for Dr. Chaplyn and Dr. Barton, highlighting the exceptional mentors and role models they have had the privilege to work with and learn from during their training in the NT.

Both doctors wholeheartedly recommend attending the RMA conference to anyone considering a career in rural generalism. The conference not only broadens horizons but also fosters a sense of pride and camaraderie among those dedicated to serving in rural and remote communities. Dr. Chaplyn and Dr. Barton express their gratitude to Flinders for providing them with the opportunity to attend RMA, acknowledging the immense impact it has had on their professional development.

The bursary program is released in November of each year. Those interested in this opportunity can reach out to fnt.rth@flinders.edu.au for further information.