Rural Generalist Dr Stefanie Hammond knows what it takes to push for change — whether it’s rethinking how doctors are trained, advocating for marginalised doctors, or helping keep her local health service sustainable.
Now, she’s taking that drive to Wadjemup (Rottnest Island, WA), where she’s been selected as one of 22 doctors from across Australia to attend ACRRM’s inaugural Emerging Leaders Conference.
Alongside her work as a Rural Generalist, inpatient, and urgent care doctor, Dr Hammond also plays a key role in training the next generation of Rural Generalist doctors. She leads ACRRM’s Victorian registrar training workshops and has been instrumental in developing education that better reflects the diversity of patients rural doctors care for.
Dr Hammond says she is excited to take her local experience to the national stage.
“Being part of the Emerging Leaders Conference is an opportunity to connect with others who share the same passion for advancing rural, remote, and First Nations healthcare and creating systems that genuinely support communities,” she says.
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says Dr Hammond’s selection is a recognition of her passion and drive.
“Stefanie is not only a committed Rural Generalist but also a leader who brings fresh ideas and real energy to the profession. She represents the kind of forward-thinking doctors who will shape the future of rural and remote healthcare,” Dr Martin says.
The Emerging Leaders Conference will run immediately prior to Rural Medicine Australia (RMA25), the nation’s largest gathering of rural doctors, which is hosted by ACRRM and the Rural Doctors Association of Queensland in Boorloo (Perth).