Xaante Thomas: A future rural GP in the making
Xaante Thomas has always felt at home in Australia’s tropics. Born in Darwin, spending her early childhood in Arnhem Land, and later growing up on the Atherton Tablelands, her deep-rooted connection to the bush and rainforest shaped not only her love for hiking and camping but also her vision for the future.
Now, as a fourth-year medical student at James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville, Xaante is well on her way to becoming a rural general practitioner, with a strong passion for improving healthcare in remote communities.
Her path to medicine was largely influenced by her father, a dedicated rural generalist.
“Growing up, I saw how much passion my dad had for his job, which I think any child finds inspiring,” Xaante recalls.
“I also spent my whole life in rural areas, so I was always aware of the challenges that come with remote living.”
It wasn’t until she grew older and began researching the rural-urban health gap that she truly grasped the disparities in healthcare access.
“The more I learned, the more impassioned I became. I wanted to be part of the solution.”
While medical school presents its challenges, Xaante is learning to navigate the uncertainties that come with training to become a doctor.
“Like any healthcare provider, I want to do my best for patients, but I often worry that my best won’t be good enough,” she admits.
However, her passion for general practice keeps her motivated.
“GPs have the opportunity to form long-term, meaningful relationships with their patients in a way that no other specialty does,” she says.
“They also play a vital role in preventative healthcare, which aligns with my own medical and personal interests.”
Xaante believes that to be a great GP, one must be warm, gentle, and open-minded.
“I’ve seen first-hand the difference it makes when a GP is approachable and genuinely cares,” she says.
“Even as a medical student, I find having a GP who is lovely and welcoming makes me more likely to seek help when I need it
“I can only imagine how much more important that is for people with lower health literacy or a greater distrust of the medical system.”
Looking ahead, Xaante envisions herself working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service, ideally in Cape York Peninsula or back in Arnhem Land.
“I love the concept of healthcare being run by communities, for communities. It’s something I’m deeply passionate about and hope to be involved in.”
Xaante credits the General Practice Students Network (GPSN) at JCU for providing her with valuable learning experiences, from clinical skills nights to guest speaker events.
“GPSN has given me insight into the world of general practice and solidified my passion for this career path,” she says.
One of her most defining experiences in medical school so far was a second-year placement on Thursday Island.
“I had never felt so welcomed into a community, and I had never seen so many inspiring doctors and healthcare professionals,” she says.
“The Torres Strait faces significant health challenges, yet the dedication and passion of the healthcare staff there were remarkable.
“Seeing the real impact they had made me excited and hopeful for my own future.”
With her strong sense of purpose and commitment to rural healthcare, Xaante Thomas is set to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in remote communities.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to other medical students, demonstrating the immense value of general practice and the vital role it plays in ensuring equitable healthcare for all Australians.
