In the latest edition of the HealthScoop, RAHC Dental Assistant Sharni Bartlett talks about leaving Brisbane to take up a career in the Northern Territory (NT) as a remote health professional. Sharni has worked on short-term paid placements in a number of remote Indigenous communities in the NT, including Galiwin’ku, Alpurrurulam, Borroloola, Timber Creek, Yarralin and Kalkarindji.
I took a real leap of faith when I quit my full-time job and decided to give remote work a go. I really wasn't sure what to expect or just what I was getting myself into. Almost two years since my first placement with RAHC I've worked in a dozen or more communities and have had an amazing time along the way.
For me, working in the Top End has been a great eye opener and a wonderful way to learn about our land and Aboriginal culture. While working with RAHC I've been fortunate enough to work in some of the most remote and untouched parts of Australia, a perk you won’t find in many dental assisting jobs that's for sure.
Every placement is different, as is every community, so being adaptable, a problem solver and being able to think outside the box is all part of the job. I've learned some really valuable skills out bush that I have no doubt will help me in any working environment I find myself in in the future.
Since day one of the application process I've found the RAHC team extremely supportive and have been so impressed by their dedication to ensuring my placements are successful. It's reassuring to know that they are only ever a phone call away if you need them.
I've made some wonderful lifelong friends working remote. We all share a sense of adventure, a desire to make a difference and shoes permanently stained red from the dirt. Talking with other dental teams is always a highlight of my trip. Hearing about their experiences and sharing tips about the places we've been is such a valuable part of the process.
I can't wait to head out bush again, it's always such an adventure. There's no doubt in my mind that I've found my dream job!
This article was originally published in the HealthScoop on July 22/7/13