BY ISABEL EVERETT
The University of Newcastle have announced new pathways for students who have overcome major life challenges to
study Medicine.
From next year, up to six places in the University’s
Medical Program will be earmarked for students who apply through the Excellence
through Equity Pathway to Medicine pilot.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky said
the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine would build on the
University’s longstanding commitment to widening participation for students
from all backgrounds.
“There are many examples of medical researchers and health
practitioners world-wide who have used their own circumstances and background
as a driver for positive change in healthcare and health outcomes for patients,”
Professor Zelinsky said.
“Many people in our community will be familiar with our
Open Foundation and Newstep programs, which have long provided successful
pathways into undergraduate health disciplines. But until now there has been no
similar program available for entry into Medicine."
As part of the pilot, students who complete Open Foundation or Newstep programs will be eligible for the pathway into Medicine if they satisfy academic and interview criteria, as well as demonstrate socioeconomic disadvantage and three additional equity indicators.
These equity indicators are:
· Financial hardship
· Regional, rural, remote or isolated area
· Carer responsibilities
· Refugee status
· Sole parent
· Personal illness or disability
· Experience of domestic and family violence
· Out-of-home care experience
· School status
· Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
“This new enabling pathway to the Bachelor of Medical
Science and Doctor of Medicine (Joint Medical Program) strengthens the
University’s commitment to equity across our degree programs."
“Having a medical workforce that better reflects the
broader community where they work will ensure that health services and
approaches to care are developed and provided with the full diversity of the
population in mind,” Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor Faculty of Health and Medicine
Professor Elizabeth Sullivan said.
“In turn, this can lead to greater health equity in our
society.”
Students who have already graduated from an enabling
program, completed an additional 12 months study, and meet the equity criteria
will also be eligible for this pathway.
Open Foundation graduate Kurtis Simpson, who is currently
studying medical engineering, welcomed the new pathway.
“I began my university studies at age 26, which might not
seem very old but when you have spent eight years in the workforce without
studying, the pathway into university seems daunting, especially if you did not
excel in high school.
I was grateful that the University of Newcastle’s
enabling program and especially the teachers and support personnel who made the
transition as easy as possible,” Kurtis said.
“Had the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine been on offer there is no doubt that I would have jumped at the opportunity to apply for Medicine, as I think it’s a field that thrives on the diversity of experience that its practitioners bring."
