ACRRM submission champions healthcare for sustainable rural communities

Funding, infrastructure, policy and peer support for rural generalists will improve access to healthcare and assist in building strong and sustainable rural and remote communities, says Australian College of Rural and Remote Services (ACRRM) President Dr Ewen McPhee.

In its pre-budget/pre-election submission for 2019, ACRRM highlights doctor access and funding and support for rural health infrastructure as key areas to securing a positive economic and social outlook for rural Australians.

 “Support should be provided for equipment and facilities and extended to recruitment and training of rural generalists, doctors, nurses and allied health workers,” Dr McPhee says.

Investment should be underpinned by robust rural medical workforce policies which include remuneration and incentive structures that recognise the extended scope and demands of working outside urban areas.

“If a community loses a doctor or a practice, a wide range of associated community health care and services can be compromised,” Dr McPhee adds.

“The impact of the freeze on Medical Benefits Schedule indexation payments, for example, continues to adversely impact rural practice, particularly as many communities remain severely impacted by natural disasters such as drought, floods and fire.

“We urge an immediate return to MBS rebate for parity for primary care services and other medical services. “Funding grants should also be reviewed to address flexibility and income tax liability issues.

“ACRRM sets professional standards for practice and lifelong education and we support and advocate for specialist general practitioners and rural generalists. “ACRRM’s budget and election submission is built on our vision of having the right doctors, in the right places, with the right skills, providing rural and remote people with excellent healthcare,” Dr McPhee says.

To access ACRRM’s pre-election, pre-budget submission, please click here.