Dr Joshua Columbus feels a deep calling to community health.
Born in the remote jungles among that Karen Resistance Group, on the border of Thailand and Myanmar, Bendigo Community Health Services (BCHS) newest general practitioner understands better than most the complex needs some people face.
“My own background as a refugee and my experiences growing up in underserved communities have deeply influenced my commitment to rural healthcare, refugee health and supporting marginalised populations,” he tells.
With his family forced to flee to Thailand when he was just eight months old, Dr Columbus completed his schooling in refugee camps before receiving a scholarship to study in Canada from the World University Service of Canada, an organisation dedicated to supporting refugees around the world to access higher education.
He has studied diplomas, bachelor and master degrees all around the world, as well as working in hospitals from Townsville to Swan Hill, now though, Dr Columbus has settled in Bendigo and is working toward his Fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
Rural medicine and supporting the health and wellbeing of refugees is where his passion lies.
“Medicine is not just about knowledge – it’s about compassion, dedication and the ability to connect with patients on a human level,” he says.
“I chose to work in community health because of my deep connection to underserved populations, particularly the Karen refugee community.
“Working at BCHS allows me to provide culturally sensitive care, address health disparities and support those who often struggle to navigate the healthcare system.
“Having experienced displacement myself, I understand the unique challenges these communities face, from limited access to medical services to language and cultural barriers.
“Working in this area has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to build strong connections with patients and provide care that is both meaningful and impactful. It is a fulfilling way to give back.”
Having overcome and achieved so much, Dr Columbus says prioritising balance is what has helped him succeed.
“My journey to medicine was not a straight path but a series of experiences that have taught me that persistence, adaptability and passion are just as important as academic achievements,” he says.
by Emma Sartori
Published: April 10, 2025
