Indigenous Medical Students encouraged to apply for AMA Scholarship
The AMA is now accepting applications for the 2017 AMA Indigenous Peoples’ Medical Scholarship.
The successful applicant will receive $10,000 each year for the duration of their course.
AMA President, Dr Michael Gannon, said today that a highly skilled medical workforce that includes more Indigenous doctors and health professionals will help reduce health inequalities for Indigenous Australians.
“There is evidence that there is a greater chance of improved health outcomes when Indigenous people are treated by Indigenous doctors and health professionals,” Dr Gannon said.
“Increasing the number of Indigenous doctors and health workers improves access to culturally appropriate health care and services, and ensures medical services respond properly to the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Previous AMA Scholarship recipients have graduated to work in Indigenous and mainstream health services, and some have spent time providing care in their own communities.
“These wonderful doctors are now the pride of the medical profession and their communities, and role models for Indigenous Australians who want a career as a doctor or other health professional.
“The Scholarship has assisted many Indigenous men and women, who may not have otherwise had the financial resources to study medicine.
“The AMA strongly encourages Indigenous students to apply for the scholarship.”
Dr Gannon said the Scholarship, the AMA Indigenous Health Report Card, and the work of the AMA Taskforce on Indigenous Health are all part of the AMA’s commitment to reconciliation.
Applications for the Scholarship must be received by 31 January 2017.
To be eligible for the Scholarship, applicants must be currently enrolled at an Australian medical school, and be in at least their first year of medicine. Applicants must be people of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background.
For further information on how to apply for the 2017 AMA Indigenous Peoples’ Medical Scholarship visit: https://www.ama.com.au/indigenous-peoples-medical-scholarship-2017
Information on previous recipients can be found at https://ama.com.au/advocacy/indigenous-peoples-medical-scholarship
1 November 2016
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761
Kirsty Waterford 02 6270 5464 / 0427 209 753
