University of Southern Queensland paramedicine students were able to experience the breadth and depth of rural health practice as part of the SQRH paramedicine observational programs held in Toowoomba in December 2019 and Charleville in January 2020.

The Toowoomba-based program saw students visit My Midwives, Lifeflight, Carbal Medical Services, Burstow’s Funerals, Base Services, Icon Cancer Care at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, Sunrise Way, Queensland Ambulance Service at Pittsworth, Beauaraba Living and Toowoomba Hospital Renal Unit.

At each location staff gave incredible insight into rural healthcare, recounting patient scenarios, the benefits of team work and the challenges and rewards of delivering care in rural and remote communities. The students agreed the observational placement week provided the perfect opportunity to see rural health in action, the ability to ask questions and the time to reflect on their career pathway and choices.

The Charleville-based program gave students an insight into the unique role rural health professionals play in rural and remote Southern Queensland.

Visiting a number of health provider locations including the Morven Clinic, Kill for a Cuppa mental health support group, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Charleville base, Charleville Western Areas Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health, Lifeline Charleville office, Healthy Aging Program, Charleville Hospital, QAS Charleville and Roma, Augathella Multi-Purpose Health Service, Lifeflight Base and Roma Hospital, the students also met with Murweh Shire Council Mayor Annie Liston.

As well as familiarisation with healthcare delivery, the students participated in simulation exercises and took the opportunity to ask experienced rural health professionals about their career highlights and lessons learned.