The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC) was formed to increase the pool of urban-based Healthcare Professionals (HPs) available for work in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Several dedicated individuals recruit, orientate and deploy HPs to these communities, one of whom is Placement Coordinator Kirsti Randall.
Kirsti has just completed her first year of working with the RAHC team. She is responsible for organising Registered Nurse placements in central Northern Territory (NT). Having obtained her Certificate III in Travel and Hospitality, Kirsti brings considerable knowledge and experience from her previous roles in the travel and tourism sector.
After completing a contract with the Rural Locum Assistance Program, another Federally-funded programme managed by RAHC’s parent company Aspen Medical, Kirsti wanted to continue working in healthcare within rural and remote communities.
"I'm a big believer in everyone is deserving of healthcare no matter who they are or where they are," Kirsti says. "I want to be part of a team that assists in the provision of quality healthcare and do my part in helping to close the gap."
Since joining the team, Kirsti has had the additional challenge of coordinating HP placements through the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 has significantly impacted RAHC operations, with border restrictions and lockdowns affecting HP availability and travel to the NT. Despite this, the team have managed to continue meeting the needs of remote health services.
"The process of arranging placements is never the same and COVID-19 has undoubtedly had an impact on that. Though it will be here for a long time, we've just had to learn to be flexible. It hasn't been easy, but it's certainly been worth it."
For Kirsti, the best part of her role is her relationships with the different communities and HPs. "They're all great to work with as there is a good level of camaraderie amongst us," she says.
Having strong relationships with HPs and health services is an essential component of Kirsti's role. "It is about teamwork. You can't force people into placements, they need to enjoy what they do and feel comfortable and supported, and that is what we provide."
"For those thinking about joining the RAHC team, in either health provider capacity or as part of the team here in the office, definitely do it. It is very rewarding, a year has gone by so quickly for me and I know what I am doing is important."
"I am proud to say I work with RAHC."