Careers in Medicine are now more Accessible for Rural Students

Tuesday May 16, 2006

The Faculty of Health at the University of Newcastle is introducing a Rural/Remote Admissions Scheme (RRAS) for entry into the 2007 Bachelor of Medicine program.

Thirty percent (approximately 24) of the Commonwealth Supported Places for the degree will be reserved for rural and remote students next year.

RRAS is aimed at increasing the access of Australian students with a significant rural background to the Bachelor of Medicine program.

There is currently a doctor shortage across the country, particularly in rural and remote areas including parts of the Hunter region. By encouraging students from rural and remote areas to enrol in the Bachelor of Medicine program, it is likely that this shortage will be addressed, as there is evidence that these students are more likely to return to those areas to work as doctors.

"We have a commitment to our region including the Hunter and the Tamworth New England area, as well as a broader responsibility to the community as a medical school, in terms of graduating the sort of doctors that the community needs."

"Literature shows that students from rural and remote regions are more likely to become doctors in those areas. This makes sense because they have family and other ties to the rural regions in which they grew up," says Professor Dimity Pond.

Applicants wishing to take part in the program through the RRAS will be required to demonstrate a significant rural background. This will be based on the Federal Government's Rural, Remote and Metropolitan areas (RRMA) classification.

For media comment please call Professor Dimity Pond on 02 49 686721