Addressing inequities in access to high quality medical care has been a longstanding challenge in Australia and the Government recognises the importance of providing all Australians with timely access to quality, safe, and affordable health care services, no matter where they live.
To assist in attracting and retaining medical professionals in regional, rural, and remote areas, the 2019–20 Budget provided $62.2 million to commence a National Rural Generalist Pathway (the Pathway). Rural Generalists are general practitioners (GPs) who provide primary care services, emergency medicine, and have training in additional skills like obstetrics, anaesthetics, or mental health services. The Pathway recognises the extra requirements and skills of rural generalists and supports them to meet the diverse health needs of regional, rural, and remote communities. Rural Generalists complement and work alongside rural GPs to increase local access to a wider range of specialist medical services.
The Australian Government is working with the state and territory governments and with the GP Colleges to support the implementation of the Pathway.
The Department of Health has worked with the National Rural Health Commissioner, Adjunct Professor Ruth Stewart and with practicing Rural Generalist Dr Preston Cardelli to develop a video to highlight elements of rural practice. We hope the video will provide insight to medical students and junior doctors who might be considering a rural career.
Watch the video here.