Caring for our community: from rural medical student to rural doctor
Sarah Blackwell is a fourth-year medical student at The University of Sydney School of Rural Health in Dubbo, a proud Wiradjuri woman and from next year a doctor at Dubbo Hospital.
Studying at the School of Rural Health in Dubbo has prepared Sarah to become a future rural doctor. Weekly simulation sessions with doctors from the School, the Royal Flying Doctor Service and clinical skills educators have been invaluable in building her confidence and opportunities to do placements in remote communities like Lightning Ridge has been crucial to understanding some of the unique complexities of rural healthcare.
“It really highlights the challenges, such as the lack of medical equipment, limited resources, access to care, and the impact of socioeconomic factors—things you don’t fully comprehend when you're in a fully equipped city hospital,” she reflects.
Starting next year, Sarah will begin her internship at Dubbo Hospital, feeling both excited and nervous, however the transition to becoming a doctor feels easier knowing she’s supported by the local medical staff who have taught her through medical school and are invested in her career.
"The relationships I’ve built and the networking opportunities I’ve had are invaluable. The hospital is incredibly friendly, and I feel safe here. I like that I’m making genuine progress. In city hospitals, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd, but here, they know my name, that I have a dog, and even who I live with."
Sarah is also looking forward to caring for the Dubbo and broader Western NSW community. “I strive to provide culturally safe care, and I want to be part of breaking down barriers. While I can't change the world as just one person, I can help educate those I work with, even if it's one patient at a time. My hope is to bring cultural education and awareness into healthcare for improved outcomes.”
Looking ahead, Sarah is hoping to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, a field she deeply cares about, particularly in providing female-to-female healthcare and the positive impact this approach can have on patients.
The University of Sydney now offers the entire four-year Doctor of Medicine program at the School of Rural Health in Dubbo, providing students with the opportunity to get immersed in rural healthcare and make a difference in our community.