As far as internships go, it can be a challenging yet invaluable learning experience.
But the new batch of interns at Echuca Regional Health is keen to make the most of this opportunity.
Out of the 50 applicants who applied for the 2022 internship program, doctors Molly Cookson, Michaela Rutherford, Wilhelmina Arnott, Emma Sutton and Rebecca Coffey were the successful ones.
The freshly-appointed interns started the program on January 17.
As part of their training, the interns will rotate through the specialist areas of general medicine, general surgery, emergency, rehabilitation and general practice.
Over a 12-month internship, the five interns will undertake 10-11 weeks in each rotation.
Intern Dr Cookson is thinking of forging a career as a general practitioner with specialist skills in either emergency or obstetrics.
She has currently been undertaking her rehabilitation rotation.
“It’s been rewarding to be an advocate for the patients and make a difference in their care,” she said.
In contrast to Dr Cookson, Dr Sutton from Mooroolbark had never been to Echuca before starting her internship at ERH.
Dr Cookson is grateful for the opportunity to learn from the senior staff at ERH.
“I just feel so lucky that we get to be here to do this kind of work.
“It’s a dream come true. The team here is just amazing.”
ERH Clinical Training director Dr Nyree O’Connor mentors, educates and provides guidance to the interns, who are recent graduates.
She started her role as director in September 2021, as a fill-in for previous director Kate Schultz.
“We look for interns who are interested in the country life and in the country experience.”
Dr O’Connor said the internship gave insight into specific problems that occured within the regional healthcare system, which was incredibly “useful” information.
“The internship program opens interns’ eyes to working in rural areas.”
Ballarat’s Wilhelmina Arnott, who studied at Monash University, is currently undertaking her surgical rotation.
Dr Arnott said it had been a huge transition going from medical student to being an intern.
“There’s a lot more responsibility. Things that you couldn’t do as a medical student, you are now expected to do.”
Dr Rutherford agrees: “It’s been busy but we’ve had a great support system.”
Dr Rutherford has completed placements all around Victoria in places like Bendigo, Swan Hill and Mildura.
So far, she is really enjoying being in Echuca. “I’m very happy with my choice to come here.”
Mollie Flood, intern from last year, will return this year for a second year with ERH.