Lachlan Fitch - Future Graduate
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2026 AMA Queensland Foundation Medical Student Scholarship recipient and 6th Year Medical Student at James Cook University, Cairns.
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 16, Lachlan must navigate invisible daily challenges associated with his condition alongside the rigours of medical school.
“Managing Type 1 Diabetes as a medical student can be challenging but is critical to be able to perform safely and effectively in high-stakes environments. Constant vigilance is required to balance clinical placements, exams and study while ensuring my blood sugar levels remain stabilised,” Lachlan said.
Financially independent throughout his medical degree, Lachlan was able to balance study with employment to cover tuition and living costs for the first three years. However, this has become increasingly difficult to maintain while managing a chronic illness and alongside demanding clinical placements.
Lachlan’s chronic illness also brings significant out-of-pocket expenses for insulin, glucagon, and pump supplies and with the recent cessation of his private pump funding, he is experiencing a critical financial gap.
“I have utilised various schemes to access insulin, continuous glucose monitors and endocrinologist appointments. However, this recently changed with no further access to private health funding for insulin pumps, leaving me with an additional $200 per month out-of-pocket cost for medical supplies.”
This unexpected additional financial burden in his final year is further compounded by costs associated with his upcoming 10-week rural placement in Mount Isa.
“Rural rotations also involve significant travel and living costs that, when added to my monthly medical expenses, create a prohibitive financial barrier,” he said.
Lachlan’s motivation for studying medicine comes from a fascination for how the human body works and he enjoys the detective work required to translate history, physical examinations, and investigations into a clear clinical picture.
“I believe a successful physician must solve problems by balancing clinical evidence with the unique needs of the patient, the treating team, and the resources of the facility. I aim to be a clinician who bridges the gap between high-level science and practical, patient-centred care.”
Scholarship funds will directly cover essential life-sustaining medical costs and ensure Lachlan’s health remains stable to maintain the high cognitive and physical demands of clinical training.
“By alleviating this pressure, the scholarship allows me to focus entirely on my transition to internship and ensures that my clinical performance is dictated by my dedication and clinical acumen, rather than the financial constraints of a chronic condition.”
Lachlan’s scholarship was supported by the Stan and Maureen Duke Foundation under the Foundation’s Sponsor one Student Program.