The AMA is seeking applications from indigenous students in at least their first year of medical school for a scholarship worth $10,000 a year
The AMA is seeking applications from indigenous students in at least their first year of medical school for a scholarship worth $10,000 per year.
AMA President Dr Michael Gannon said the scholarship, which has helped support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical students since 1994, was part of the AMA’s commitment to help improve indigenous health.
“The significant gap in life expectancy between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians is a national disgrace that must be tackled by all levels of government, the private and corporate sectors, and all segments of our community,” he said.
“It’s evident that indigenous people have a greater chance of improved health outcomes when they are treated by indigenous doctors and health professionals.”
Previous recipients of the scholarship have gone on to become prominent leaders in health and medicine, including Associate Professor Kelvin Kong, Australia’s first Aboriginal surgeon.
Fewer than 300 doctors working in Australia identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander – representing 0.3 per cent of the workforce – and only 286 indigenous medical students are enrolled.
To be eligible for the 2018 the 2018 AMA Indigenous Medical Scholarship scholarship, students must be currently enrolled in an Australian medical school, and be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background.
The successful applicant will receive $10,000 each year for the duration of their course, subject to annual reviews.
Applications will close by January 31 next year.
The AMA is seeking donations and sponsorships to help fund the scholarship program in the future.
