As the world continues to face numerous health challenges, long-term immunities are available by preparing a future workforce through good Health and Medical Education.

Recently, Dr Elizabeth Blackburn became the 11th Australian being awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine, together with her co-researchers. She exemplifies Australia’s outstanding achievements which include Professor Barry Marshall and Emeritus Professor Robin Warren, academics of The University of Western Australia, who received the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2005. This evidence clearly reflects Australia’s dedication to Health and Medical Sciences.


Dr Num Tanthuwanit, Rehabilitation Physician at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital RTAF and the 2008 Young Alumni Award recipient, graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital Clinical School. Dr Num said “The University of Melbourne’s medical program is renowned as one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere”.

Dr Num’s perception of a shortage of trained specialists in the Thai public sector led him to work for Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital RTAF where he has established a Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic. The clinic gives patients access to a structured rehabilitation program utilising the Australian National Heart Foundation Guidelines 2004 and a Care Map based on the Royal Melbourne Hospital for Stroke Unit Guidelines.
 
Dr Prawit Taytiwat, Dean of Faculty of Public Health, Naresuan University, believes that the world has shifted its focus from medical care and treatment to health promotion and disease prevention. Health Management, therefore, has become increasingly important for an effective implementation of health policies.

Graduated with a Doctor of Health Services Management from The University of New England (UNE), Australia, Dr Prawit explained that “studying Health Management in Australia provided many advantages including those resulting from similarities of public/private provision health care systems. Several practices are adaptable to the Thai context including collaboration between researchers, health managers, and relevant groups; and the retention of medical practitioners in rural areas through research investment”. Dr David Briggs, Coordinator of Health Management and Gerontology (UNE) stressed that “Dr Taytiwat was a prime example of the value in investing in international education…he is making a significant impact and contribution to the health system, utilising his experiences and knowledge gained in Australia”.

Many Australian universities offer different specialisations in Health Sciences. The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) specialises in Sport and Rehabilitation Science, Biomedical Science, Nursing, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Public Health and undertakes research related to Healthy Activities, Sport and Exercise.

For those wanting to study in this area, Dr Prawit suggested that student “firstly research problems in Thailand and the region so that your study is goal-oriented.  Pay attention not only to ‘what’ happens but also ‘how’ and ‘why’ it happens, also try to build network as this will help you to progress professionally”.