Aboriginal community health connection wins award

LIME Award

An innovative program connecting University of Western Sydney medical students with the Aboriginal Medical Service in regional NSW and metropolitan Sydney has been recognised by the Leaders in Indigenous Medical Education Network. 

The UWS program places all 5th year medical students in a five week attachment with an Aboriginal Medical Service. 

Dean of the UWS School of Medicine, Professor Annemarie Hennessy, says the hands-on experience provides students with a broad understanding of primary health care and the many roles of an Aboriginal Medical Service. 

"Immersing our medical students in the diverse communities they will serve after graduation helps to build closer connections and make better doctors," says Professor Hennessy. 

Indigenous Program Officer in the UWS School of Medicine, Cris Carriage, says during their placements with the Aboriginal Medical Service the students see the importance of community control for health care delivery.

"The partnership is providing students insights into the work of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and the communities they serve. 

"I am delighted to have been involved in the development of the program which put students at the heart of the Aboriginal community to experience Aboriginal health in urban, rural and remote settings," says Ms Carriage.

Jenny Akers and Cris Carriage 

Jenny Akers and Cris Carriage accepted the LIME Award on behalf of UWS

The UWS program has been developed with the advice, support and encouragement of the medical program partners and through a strong commitment of School of Medicine staff. 

Ms Carriage and, UWS School of Medicine Rural Program Manager, Jenny Akers, accepted the Leaders in Indigenous Medical Education Network (LIME) Award on behalf of the University.

Ends

21 June 2012

Photos: Sally Tsoutas