WA Rural Physician Training Pathway officially launched

A new chapter in country healthcare has begun, with WA Country Health Service officially launching the WA Rural Physician Training Pathway (WA RPTP).

The program offers a structured, networked training pathway for trainees pursuing Adult Internal Medicine through the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP).

Over three years, they will gain hands-on experience working at the WA Country Health Service, while also incorporating 12 months of in-reach rotations in partnered metropolitan training settings. 

This combination of experience ensures trainees meet the RACP basic physician training requirements while gaining extensive country experience across a breadth of medical areas and specialties.

WA Rural Physician Training Pathway network directors Dr Lloyd Nash and Dr Lee Fairhead said the program is a useful tool in growing our country specialist workforce.

“These dedicated trainees are stepping up to become the next generation of country Physicians,” Dr Nash said.

“This Pathway is about equipping trainees with the skills and experience needed to thrive in country WA.”

Dr Fairhead echoed the sentiment, emphasising the program’s unique opportunities.

“Country medicine offers an incredibly diverse and rewarding career,” she said.

“Our trainees will get exposure to a broad scope of practice while working in close-knit teams, which provide mentorship and support.”

The program welcomed its first cohort of Basic Physician Trainees (BPT) with an engaging and informative orientation session, setting the stage for their journey toward a fulfilling career as country Physicians.

With their first term fast approaching, they heard from Dr Nash and Dr Fairhead, as well as representatives from the RACP and the WA Country Health Service Medical Education Unit.

The directors shared their expertise on a range of topics, including what to expect as a Physician trainee, how to navigate the program, and the extensive support available along the way.

Dr Oliver Taylor said the orientation was valuable in preparing them for their programs, and familiarising themselves with mentors and fellow trainees.

"It was really helpful to have an in-person orientation,” they said.

“There's so much content to cover and being face-to-face made it easier to ask questions and get to know the staff who will be supporting us throughout the Pathway program.”

The launch of the WA RPTP was made possible thanks to the contributions, support and advocacy of doctors Sean George, Jaye Martin, John Balendra and Chris Wilson.

By providing structured training, professional networks and dedicated support, the Pathway is helping to shape the next generation of Consultant Physicians in regional and remote WA.