A new dental school in Cairns

Key Points

• Cairns Dental School is part of James Cook University (JCU) and will provide dental services to the more remote areas of Northern Queensland.

• A distinguishing aspect of the JCU dentistry program is its focus on rural, remote, tropical and Indigenous health in under-served populations.

• Unique opportunities for research at JCU include interdisciplinary work with marine biology focussing on surface attachment.

Abstract

Starting a new school is a challenge, especially in the present economic climate, but that is the situation facing several schools in Australia. Due to the shortage of dental manpower, especially in the more remote areas of Australia, the Federal Government has provided funds to increase the number of dentists in training. One of the areas chosen for a new dental school was Cairns, Northern Queensland and the administration of the new school is under the auspices of the James Cook University (JCU). The Main JCU campus is at Townsville which is 340 km (212 miles) away and about four hours' driving distance (Fig. 1). The Faculty of Medicine, Health and Molecular Sciences offers many health professional programs at both campuses, including Medicine, Physiotherapy and Pharmacy at the Townsville Campus and Dentistry and Nursing in Cairns (Fig. 2).

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account

Continue with Google

Continue with ORCiD