Paediatrician Dr Rebecca Healey receives AMA Diversity in Medicine Award for groundbreaking International Medical Graduate research
Distinguished paediatrician and researcher, Dr Rebecca Healey, has been awarded the AMA’s annual Diversity in Medicine Award for her outstanding contribution to equity, inclusion, and diversity in the medical profession and workplace.
Dr Healey, a Staff Specialist Paediatrician and Senior Conjoint Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, was presented with the award by AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen for her groundbreaking research and advocacy on behalf of international medical graduates (IMGs).
Dr Healey's extensive research into IMG lived experiences has shed light on the significant challenges faced by internationally-trained doctors in Australia, including registration difficulties, training obstacles, and systemic discrimination.
As an IMG herself, Dr Healey has leveraged her personal experience to produce IMG-centric research while undertaking full-time doctorate study alongside her clinical role.
Her findings highlight the structural disadvantages faced by IMGs, who account for a third of doctors in Australia, and provide evidence-based recommendations for creating more inclusive medical workplaces.
"I am honoured to receive the AMA Diversity in Medicine Award and grateful for the recognition of this vital work," Dr Healey said.
"International medical graduates bring immense value to Australian healthcare through their diverse clinical experience, cultural backgrounds, and unique perspectives that benefit patient care in our multicultural society."
Dr Healey said her research aimed to promote collaboration between IMGs and medical institutions to create safer, more inclusive workplaces.
"This research has highlighted the dire need for action on IMG safety and inclusion in the workplace," she said.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said Dr Healey's work was instrumental in advancing equity within the medical profession.
"Dr Healey's research provides the robust foundation needed for meaningful change in how we support our IMGs," Dr McMullen said.
"Her dedication to amplifying the voices of marginalised colleagues and her evidence-based approach to promoting workplace inclusion exemplify the values this award recognises."
Dr Healey has published four papers as part of her doctorate study, with two additional publications expected in the coming months. She has presented her findings at national and international conferences and her clinical engagement with refugee communities has been recognised at the prestigious Hunter New England Excellence Awards.
See Dr Healey's co-authored research paper on Psychosocial Exploration of International Medical Graduate.