Education program supports trainee Anaesthetic Technicians to practice in country WA

Access to education and employment opportunities in country WA have once again grown with the launch of Bunbury Regional Hospital’s Anaesthetic Technician Trainee program.

For the first time, clinicians will be able to obtain a Diploma of Anaesthetic Technology and Practice in regional WA.

Hospital Director Jeff Calver said the program was just one of the ways WA Country Health Service (WACHS) was building a sustainable workforce well into the future.

“This is just one of the many ways we are working to attract and retain country clinicians to ensure high quality care continues for our country communities,” he said.

“Through this program we’re providing a pathway for local residents to access education and employment opportunities with supported online learning and practical on-the-job experience under the watchful eye of some of the State’s best educators and specialists.”

Run in partnership with registered training organisation, Health Science Hub, the program welcomed the first two trainees – Matthew and Samuel – late last year.

The duo first joined Bunbury Regional Hospital as theatre-based patient care assistants and had shown interest in pursuing career opportunities as anaesthetic technicians.

“I joined the program because I wanted a career in health services but having two young children made it difficult to opt for the anaesthetic technician program in Perth,” Samuel said.

“Remaining in Bunbury while completing the program means I’m close to everything I cherish; Bunbury feels like home to my family and this is where we want to raise our children.

“Working and training in Bunbury has been great, all the staff are supportive, sharing their vast knowledge and experience, and there is a strong sense of belonging and constant push to provide the best services.”