The Commonwealth Government has announced the allocation of an additional 10 Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) for The University of Queensland’s Doctor of Medicine program.
These places are targeted at the Central Queensland Regional Pathway, with a matched reallocation of 10 CSPs from metropolitan student numbers.
UQ Medical School Dean Professor Stuart Carney said the 20 new places would provide significant support in addressing medical workforce shortages in the regional locations that needed it most.
“We know from our research that early introduction to rural medicine and repeat exposure to rural placements positively influences a student’s intention to enter the rural workforce long term,” Professor Carney said.
“Whilst the funding was allocated to Central Queensland based on the most significant workforce need, we are acutely aware of the critical need for Medical Pathways in Wide Bay, and the Darling Downs and South West.
“We remain committed to their implementation with our partner Hospital and Health Services, regional universities and the State Government through Queensland Health.”
The support provided in Central Queensland will have a net benefit across regional Queensland, providing an economic boost that will enable more staff and students to work and live in the regions through infrastructure, capital investments and recurrent expenditure.
“We eagerly anticipate the transformative impact and significant developments that will unfold as a result of this announcement,” Professor Carney said.
“We are proud of this outcome and what it will bring to the implementation of the Medical Pathways in the regions.”
Media: UQ Faculty of Medicine Media, med.media@uq.edu.au, 0436368746.
