A career in medicine was a natural next step in Maddy Ludwig’s healthcare journey. “I loved my time as a nurse,” she shares, reflecting on her years in WA and the NT, where she specialized in renal nursing. However, her curiosity and drive to deepen her clinical understanding led her to Flinders University’s Doctor of Medicine program through the Indigenous Entry Program.
From Nursing to Medicine
Maddy’s background in nursing gave her a strong foundation for her medical studies. But the decision to transition was rooted in a desire to do more. “I felt that medicine better suited my strengths and allowed me to understand clinical concepts on a deeper level,” she explains. A childhood friend who was also studying medicine encouraged her to apply, and Maddy hasn’t looked back since.
The Power of Clinical Placements
For Maddy, the highlight of her studies was the hands-on experience gained through clinical placements. She spent the majority of her time at the Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) on Larrakia Country. “Being in such a small cohort meant we formed great relationships with hospital staff and teachers,” Maddy notes, emphasizing the unique opportunities this setting provided.
One of her most memorable rotations was on the renal team at RDH, where she reunited with colleagues from her nursing days. “It felt like coming full circle,” she shares.
Exploring Rural Medicine
Maddy’s placements took her across the Northern Territory, providing invaluable exposure to rural and remote healthcare. In her third year, she completed a five-month placement on Yolngu Country in Nhulunbuy. “I worked in the emergency department, maternity, and general ward at Gove Hospital, and went on outreach trips to surrounding communities,” she says.
A particularly special month was spent on Anindilyakwa Country (Groote Eylandt), where Maddy lived as a child. “Rotating through the clinics there was incredible. I reconnected with family and friends while gaining great clinical experience.”
In her final year, Maddy spent three months on Arrernte Country at Alice Springs Hospital. Rotations in alcohol and other drugs, paediatrics, and orthopaedic surgery rounded out her education. “It was a perfect way to finish my degree,” she reflects.
Looking ahead
Maddy encourages prospective students to embrace rural placements. “Take as many rural opportunities as you can. The experiences—both clinical and personal—are amazing, and you never know where they’ll take you or who you’ll meet.”
Maddy’s journey continues as she begins her internship at Alice Springs Hospital, starting with emergency medicine in January 2025. She’s considering a career in Rural Generalism or Renal Medicine, but is keeping her options open.
As she celebrates her graduation, Maddy is also taking time to reflect and recharge. A backpacking trip to the Philippines and attending the International Indigenous Doctors Conference in Adelaide are the perfect ways to end the year.