Rural Generalists support rural and remote communities with mental health care

Providing mental health care in their communities is a valued and important role Rural Generalists (RGs) play throughout Australia’s most isolated communities.

In recognition of World Mental Health Day (10 October 2019), the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) President Dr Ewen McPhee says RGs are in a good position to provide mental health education and deliver primary and preventative care.

“While rural and remote communities and workplaces can be friendly and supportive environments, there are a number of factors which can impact adversely on the mental health of people living and working in these areas,” Dr McPhee says.

“As a result, they are at higher risk of mental illness.  “We also know that rural men, in particular, are at higher risk of suicide,” Dr McPhee says.

RGs are often the first point of contact, and in some regions the only point of contact, for people concerned about their mental health. The importance of their role is magnified in areas where isolation also limits access to local support mechanisms such as specialist and allied health care services.

“These doctors provide holistic care across the illness spectrum and at all life stages. “They work with an extended scope of practice which includes primary mental health care; preventative care; coordination of clinical care; dealing with emergencies; and managing dual diagnoses and special populations including elderly, children and intellectually disabled patients,” Dr McPhee says. 

“Given these circumstances, it is important that RGs providing mental health services to their communities are appropriately trained, remunerated and supported. 

“They need access to training and ongoing professional development in addition to a range of supports, including adequate locum relief, working hours which allow time for relaxation and family activities; mentoring, professional advice and education opportunities; and programs which encourage them to look after their own physical and mental health.”