Stethoscopes and sixes: A rural medicine journey in Kalgoorlie
Dr Fernando enjoys travelling with his wife in his downtime.
After migrating to Australia from Sri Lanka in 2016, Dr Dinesh Fernando quickly adapted to his new life in Kalgoorlie. With the support of the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) he successfully completed his Workplace Based Assessment (WBA) program placement at Kalgoorlie Health Campus, a key step in becoming recognised as a specialist medical practitioner in Australia.
The supportive and friendly working environment at Kalgoorlie Health Campus made Dr Fernando's decision to stay longer an easy one. Since January 2024, he has been enrolled in the Rural Generalist Training Scheme with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM). The firsthand experience within both hospital and primary care settings has significantly boosted his confidence in managing cases with limited resources. He believes that good practitioners make the most of available resources and adapt to the various situations they find themselves in.
Being based in Kalgoorlie also allowed Dr Fernando to explore further training options close to home. The Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Kalgoorlie Health Campus, with its incredible team and dedication to teaching, motivated Dr Fernando to pursue the Associate Training Program (Advanced Procedural) through the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for his advanced specialised training with ACRRM.
“Thanks to their encouragement, I am now just one step away from completing this important qualification,” he told us.
Dr Fernando is deeply grateful to all the senior doctor mentors and administrators he has worked with for being instrumental in supporting his journey so far. He is also appreciative of the unwavering support from his wife, Asirini, who has been a constant source of encouragement in his life.
“I am a member of the Rural Generalist Pathway WA (RGPWA), which has provided immense support throughout my journey,” said Dr Fernando.
“Dr Anoop Pem, my Director of Clinical Training and mentor for RGPWA, has been influential in guiding me towards achieving my goals,” he added.
In his free time, Dr Fernando enjoys playing cricket, singing, socialising and exploring new places with his wife.