Country WA boosted with record number of medical interns

WA Country Health Service will welcome 30 new medical interns this year – a new record.

The interns will commence their 12-month placements right across country WA.

Here, they will immerse themselves in the uniqueness of country health with invaluable opportunities to learn at some of regional WA’s largest and clinically diverse hospitals.

As well as an experience like no other, the interns will be offered accommodation subsidies, travel allowances and one-on-one mentor support to make the transition to country WA easier.

WA Country Health Service Executive Director Medical Services Dr Andrew Jamieson said a career in the bush sets intern doctors up for success – with an extensive list of professional development opportunities on offer.

“We’re proud to welcome another cohort of committed health professionals who have chosen to make their mark in country WA,” Dr Jamieson said.

“Our focus is on growing our own workforce, and part of that is supporting our early career professionals with the best possible pathways to develop their skills.

“As well as the beauty of living and working in a region, our incentivised programs and support help our interns to transition to practice and are more likely to consider a career in the country long-term,” he added.

According to Dr Jamieson, country hospitals see a wide range of clinical presentations that offer a one-of-a-kind learning experience.

“The interns will learn from highly experienced doctors and teams – some of the best regional WA has to offer,” he said.

Dr Fraser Pensini, an intern in 2023, said taking up an internship in the bush was one of his best decisions.

“I found it challenging initially but rewarding and then very enjoyable,” he said.

“I felt well supported through this transition period.

“I am very thankful for the great diversity in terms that we have in Geraldton, as well as some wonderful consultants and registrars to work under.”

Dr Pensini said the program had been a valuable pathway to prepare him for working long-term in country WA.

“I am heading down the rural generalist pathway in the future,” he said.

In addition to the record number of medical interns joining country WA, WA Country Health Service has also attracted a record number of nurses and midwives and intern pharmacists.