Dr Robinson is no stranger to the demands of remote medicine. Before becoming a doctor, she worked as a paramedic and has completed multiple emergency medicine rotations. She is furthering her skills through advanced training with World Extreme Medicine and the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre.
Still, even with her extensive training and experience, she says one of the biggest challenges is the lack of resources and equipment. “We do medicine in the most remote and harsh places here,” she shared. “I’ve often thought about making up my own trauma kit because we’re often so under-resourced – even inside the clinic. Now, thanks to Rural Doctors Foundation, I’ve got a proper, fully stocked emergency bag. My own Sandpiper Bag. It’s a game-changer.”
The need for this kind of gear became painfully clear, “When a US military Osprey crashed on Melville Island, just across from us, we lacked the necessary equipment to really help” Dr Robinson recalled. “We were right there, ready to help, but without the right supplies, we were limited in what we could do. That feeling of helplessness stays with you.”
The Sandpiper Bag is now by Amanda’s side, ready for those moments when seconds count – whether it’s a critical patient in the clinic, an accident out bush, or a cyclone cutting off supplies
