Bringing Compassion to Rural Care

Dr Georgia Edwards’ journey into medicine was sparked early by a fascination with the medical field.  

An intern at the Mackay Base Hospital, Dr Edwards pursued her medical degree at James Cook University and completed her final two years at the Mackay Clinical School.  

“I was always interested in the medical type of profession,” she says. 

“I did lots of work experience in radiography, physiotherapy, and nutrition. Then, during my last placement in high school, I joined a mobile x-ray unit around the hospital and watched the medical teams working together. That problem-solving approach sparked my interest.” 

She was drawn to Mackay by the close-knit nature of its medical community.  

“I’ve heard good things about having a smaller cohort,” she shares.  

“There are fewer students out on the floor in the hospital, so you get more hands-on experience working with the clinicians.” 

The smaller setting in Mackay allowed Dr Edwards to form strong relationships with her mentors and colleagues, which she found invaluable.  

“The doctors still recognise you and smile and wave,” she says.  

“Having a small group here creates such a lovely feeling. Everyone at the hospital is fantastic, very friendly, and keen to teach. You feel like part of the team, and that’s a special experience.” 

As part of her training, Dr Edwards completed rural placements in Proserpine, Sarina and Charters Towers, experiences she credits with preparing her well for the challenges of being an intern. 

“Working in Charters Towers, they treat you like an intern while still within your scope as a student,” she says. “You’re working between the wards and emergency, really getting familiar with the patients. That experience prepared me for my role now.” 

The continuity of care in rural placements stood out to Dr Edwards.  

“One of my favourite moments was when I got to be the familiar face for patients who returned to the hospital,” she says.  

“You see them come through emergency, follow them on the wards, see them get better, and even follow them up in the clinic. It’s very special when patients recognise you. That continuity makes such a difference.” 

Although the transition to intern life hasn’t been without its challenges, Dr Edwards finds fulfillment in her work.  

“I expected it to be a big jump from being a student,” she admits.  

“The long hours and the responsibility of prioritising tasks are tough, but we have a nice group of interns who debrief together and support each other.” 

Dr Edwards’ sights are now set on a rural GP career through the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway.  

She is keen to complete further training in women’s health and palliative care to provide extended skills to a rural community in a clinic-based setting.? 

With her passion for rural healthcare and commitment to patient continuity, Dr Edwards is well on her way to making a meaningful impact in rural medicine.