Dr Mikaila Kilov, Kimberley Region

I started working on Yawuru country in 2020 as an Resident Medical Officer (RMO). I had initially planned to stay for one year, and then return to the city, but ended up staying for a second RMO year in 2021. After a brief hiatus, I’ve returned to the Kimberley as an ACRRM trainee, to work as a WACHS Emergency Department service registrar.

Working regionally has provided me with opportunities over the past two years that have been beyond anything I could have imagined possible as a junior doctor. I’ve completed a wide range of hospital-based rotations, travelled to remote communities for outreach clinics, and have been involved in the care of patients through all the life stages. I’ve delivered babies, had hands on experience managing high acuity traumas, organised aeromedical retrievals, and seen a breadth of pathology that one only reads about in textbooks. I’ve done all of this with the unwavering support and guidance of an exceptionally skilled team of doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, aboriginal health workers and patient care assistants.

The job has provided the perfect balance between autonomy and support to allow me to develop confidence and competence as a junior doctor. Above all, I’ve been privileged to meet and care for patients that come from immensely diverse backgrounds, all of whom have a unique willingness to share their stories that are rich with culture, language, and history. These stories provide invaluable lessons in humility and resilience and are an integral part of what makes working in the Kimberley so special.

Photo: Dr Mikaila Kilov enjoying the Kimberley lifestyle!