The Wild West: Rural and Remote Psychiatry Training in North Western Australia

Abstract

Objective: The author reflects on his rural psychiatric training in North Western Australia, having gained over 2 years’ experience as a basic and advanced trainee in this setting. The unique rewards and benefits of rural training are discussed along with the challenges of working in an isolated setting with resource constraints.

Conclusions: Rural and remote training remains a stimulating and professionally satisfying experience that is under-utilized by many trainees. In spite of most training requirements being able to be met in this setting, trainees are reluctant to undertake this valuable and enjoyable training experience. Trainees are encouraged to consider this opportunity to be upskilled and getting involved on a more personal level with patients, families and general practitioners, thereby enhancing their clinical skills and shaping their professional identity as future psychiatrists.