Rural doctors continue their training and exams, despite COVID

Medical practitioners training to become specialist Rural Generalist doctors with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) are progressing with their program and exams, despite COVID-19 restrictions across the country.

ACRRM trainees undertook their Advanced Specialist Training exams in Emergency Medicine online last weekend, while more than 120 future trainees completed application interviews to train with the College.

ACRRM President Dr Sarah Chalmers says that COVID might be shutting parts of the nation, but it’s not restricting rural doctors’ progression through training to achieve their specialist Fellowship and have the skills to provide communities with access to quality healthcare.

“With the incredible network of supervisors, examiners, assessors, interviewers, medical educators and administrative staff that make up the ACRRM team, we are willing and able to support the needs of our doctors in training, despite any roadblocks COVID-19 throws our way,” Dr Chalmers says.

“The College has developed robust online platforms and procedures to be able to conduct interviews and assessments remotely, ensuring people don’t need to travel and communities do not need to cope without their doctors for periods of time.

“Rural doctors are resilient and capable of responding and adapting to situations that may arise, including a pandemic.

“Their ability to do this is significant. “It shows they are well equipped to work as Rural Generalists who can deliver high quality healthcare to their rural and remote communities.

Dr Chalmers adds that while the College is facilitating academic progress and assessment, it is also focused on supporting members’ wellbeing.

“We provide access to support and mentor programs to support trainees and Fellows at all stages of their career path, so that they are equipped to provide their communities with the healthcare they deserve.

“With a pandemic underway, these supports are particularly important.”