ACRRM pledges to build on its commitment to advance the healthcare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) acknowledges and supports National Reconciliation Action Week and pledges to build on its commitment to advancing the health status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

ACRRM President, Dr Ewen McPhee says this year’s theme Walk Together with Courage aligns strongly to the College’s values.

 “With Courage one of the values we practise in our College work and philosophy, we are prepared to speak out, challenge the status quo and embrace change,”

“Since our inception, ACRRM has recognised and respected the cultures and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, particularly those in rural and remote areas.

“ACRRM is committed to training and supporting doctors to work in rural and remote areas and to improving access to health care services and health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities who live in these areas,” Dr McPhee says.

“The College also supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on their journey to ACRRM Fellowship and beyond and seeks to facilitate their passage to becoming highly skilled practitioners with opportunities to become community and professional leaders.

These commitments  are documented in the College’s Compact with the Commonwealth and our Reconciliation Action Plan.

“ACRRM will continue to work to maintain collaborations and strong working relationships with other stakeholders to improve the delivery of health care services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees within the College,” Dr McPhee says.