Driven by a deep commitment to improving Indigenous healthcare, Alex Coffey-Oates has found her passion in remote health. Recently, she earned the Centre for Remote Health Prize for Outstanding Masters Graduate 2024, a testament to her hard work and commitment to making an impact as an optometrist in rural Australia.
Alex’s drive to improve healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities fuels her career. “Remote healthcare is challenging but incredibly rewarding,” she shares. “It pushes you to take a holistic approach, considering both patient and community wellbeing.”
A Unique Learning Experience
Alex’s decision to study Master of Remote and Indigenous Health at Flinders University was shaped by her connection to Central Australia, where she spends much of her time. She appreciated having her lecturers based at the Flinders’ Centre for Remote Health in Alice Springs, providing both a strong academic base and community relevance. Despite the online delivery of her course, Alexandra felt well-supported. “I was encouraged to reach out to staff, and they always responded promptly,” she notes.
One standout aspect of her studies was the inclusion of First Nations perspectives in healthcare topics. A course on ethics and power in healthcare particularly resonated with Alex. “It transformed my practice,” she says. “Mitigating the power imbalance in healthcare, especially in cross-cultural settings, has been a valuable tool in building better relationships and outcomes.”
Empowering Indigenous Communities
Her practical experience working in remote communities allowed Alex to immediately apply what she was learning. “Being able to implement my studies into real-world practice was beneficial for me and the communities I work with,” she says. Through her studies, Alex has become a better resource for these communities, helping to implement the changes they want to see.
Looking ahead, Alex hopes to contribute to healthcare at a larger systems level while continuing her work as an optometrist in rural and remote settings. She encourages prospective students to take the leap, no matter their starting point. “Don’t let your past limit your goals. The support from Flinders has been incredible,” she adds.
Through her journey, now recognised by the award, Alex has proven that with dedication, remote health professionals can make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.