Dr. Amber Wheatley is a dedicated medical professional originally from the British Virgin Islands, whose passion for advancing equitable healthcare in underserved communities has shaped a career rooted in rural and remote medicine. With a strong academic foundation and diverse clinical experience, she blends a commitment to evidence-based practice with an enduring interest in healthcare management, global collaboration, and community-oriented care.
Dr. Wheatley began her academic journey in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science from Cardiff University. Building on that foundation, she pursued her medical degree (MBBCH) at Swansea University, where she was drawn to the intersection of medicine, social justice, and access to care. This early interest laid the groundwork for what would become her specialist focus: rural and remote medicine.
Throughout her medical training and professional career, Dr. Wheatley has consistently sought opportunities to improve health outcomes for communities with limited access to consistent care. Her academic interests lie at the crossroads of rural health delivery and healthcare systems management—an area she continues to explore through ongoing graduate studies. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Healthcare Management, alongside a certificate in Drugs in Sport, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to modern medical practice.
Her commitment to continuous learning is further reflected in her additional certifications, including Advanced Life Support (ALS), a Certificate in Medical Acupuncture, and a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Certificate. These diverse qualifications enhance her holistic view of patient care, allowing her to integrate traditional and complementary techniques within evidence-based frameworks.
In the research arena, Dr. Wheatley has contributed significantly to the global discourse on rural health. She has independently published research on rural medicine and has collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO) on initiatives aimed at improving recruitment and retention of young healthcare professionals in rural areas. Her work highlights innovative solutions for the unique challenges facing remote populations and emphasizes the importance of community-led approaches in global health policy.
Dr. Wheatley is an active member of several professional organizations that align with her values and areas of expertise. She is a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners and the Caribbean College of Family Physicians, reinforcing her deep engagement in both regional and international medical communities. She is also a founding member of Rural Seeds, a youth-led initiative promoting rural health equity, and an active member of the WONCA Working Party on Rural Practice, where she previously served as an executive member. Additionally, she contributes to advancing gender equity in medicine through her work with the WONCA Working Party on Women in Family Medicine.
In her home territory, Dr. Wheatley serves with Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR), demonstrating her deep commitment to public service and emergency response in resource-limited environments. Whether delivering direct patient care, shaping healthcare policy, or mentoring the next generation of rural practitioners, Dr. Wheatley remains steadfast in her mission to build more resilient, responsive healthcare systems across the Caribbean and beyond.
Her professional journey is a testament to her belief that geography should never determine the quality of care one receives. Through research, education, and service, Dr. Wheatley continues to champion accessible, inclusive healthcare—ensuring that even the most remote communities are not left behind.