Interest in RCS program on rise

Bunbury’s Rural Clinical School has welcomed 12 new medical students to the region.

They are part of this year’s cohort of 96 students spread across rural WA between Kununurra and Albany.

In a partnership with the University of WA and Notre Dame University, the Rural Clinical School has been designed to offer third year students the chance to work alongside and learn from rural doctors, while involving themselves in local communities

The Rural Clinical School academic service officer Emma Cooper said the students gain extra hands-on experience, something they may not have access to in the metropolitan area.

“The students get an idea of what it’s like to be a rural doctor,” she said. “The interest from the students in the city is increasing, but we do have limited places.”

To combat the growing interest, the school has been working towards the establishment of more sites throughout the State.

Reuben Jeyaraj, one of the 12 students to be posted to Bunbury, said he had followed in his older brother’s footsteps.

“I heard there was a need for doctors in rural areas so I thought I’d give it a go,” he said.

“It’s been really good actually, all the staff at the hospitals are really friendly and helpful and interested in helping me learn.”

Mr Jeyaraj made particular note of the community involvement aspect of the program and joined the Bunbury Rowing Club on his second week in the city.

According to Mrs Cooper, the students’ community involvement has lead to one in four students returning to rural placements after their studies.