Dr Kelly Ruecker

As a final year Deakin Medical Student, I had the opportunity to participate in a six-week selective joint research placement at the National Centre for Farmer Health and Western District Health Services. Here I completed a research project and audit in post-caesarean delivery pain management. I was involved in all aspects of clinical research – data collection, analysis, compiling a report and forming recommendations for the health service. Whilst my project was not strictly farmer health related, I had the opportunity to get involved and draw on the experience of the NCFH team, who welcomed me with open arms.
In addition to research, I also had opportunities to assist with health assessments of farmers throughout Western Victoria through AgriSafe™ clinics as well as hear about the exciting research and programs that the NCFH runs. I was able to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by rural and farming populations and measures utilised by rural health clinicians to improve health, safety and wellbeing in these communities.
I had a fantastic time at NCFH and WDHS! Both teams are incredibly friendly and encouraging. I would highly recommend a selective and/or elective placement at NCFH for anyone remotely interested in research, public health or farmer/rural health!
Dr Affan Guliyara

As a final year Deakin Medical Student, I participated in a six-week selective research placement at the National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH). I chose NCFH because it presented a unique opportunity for me to gain some research experience, whilst simultaneously providing exposure to the most vulnerable community amongst rural populations—farmers.
My research work involved data analysis of the agrichemicals used by the farmers in Western Victoria. This was part of an exciting research project called In-field Personalised Cholinesterase Assessment Project (PCAP), which seeks to explore the best way to measure farmers’ exposure to Cholinesterase.
Apart from research, NCFH also gave me the opportunity to attend AgriSafe clinics and Sustainable Farming Families (SFF) workshops, where I was involved in performing comprehensive health assessments on farmers from Western Victoria—and educating them on health and safety—under the supervision of experienced clinicians.
My time at NCFH was wonderful. It provided me with a valuable insight into research as well as factors that affect farmers’ health. The team is very friendly and supportive! The research work is flexible and is tailored based on the student’s prior research experience and the duration of the placement. I highly recommend all final year medical students to consider NCFH for their selective placement. You will love it!
Dr Jess Perry

During my time at the National Centre for Farmers Health I undertook a research placement performing a literature review on the topic of Organophosphate Effect on Farmers. I was supported by the friendly staff at the centre throughout this process. Also I was given the opportunity to have hands on experience with organophosphate testing and health assessment of farmers throughout western Victoria. I found this to be a valuable experience as a 4th year Medical Student as it allowed me to increase my knowledge about this topic, research and farmer’s health.