In keeping with its 2018 theme “Making Health Connections”, ACRRM challenges members this Men’s Health Week (11-17 June) to reach out to the men and boys in their communities to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing.
There is a clear need to do more for the men and boys living in rural and remote areas and our members are at the frontline to make a difference in their communities.
Australian men generally record poorer standards of health and lower life expectancy than women, and men in rural and remote areas have significantly poorer standards of physical and mental health than men living in cities.
There are many challenges to living rurally and the causes underlying these statistics often deep and complex.
Unhealthy lifestyles and behaviours and reluctance to use preventive medical services are however some important contributors and these are key areas our doctors can help to improve.
Some positive things members might do this week include:
- Spread the message - Use local events, media, and community groups to connect with the boys and men in their community and promote good health practices.Write a letter to the editor of your paper; provide a school presentation or visit your local men’s shed.
- Make sure you have a male-friendly practice setting - consider including fishing, sport or men’s health magazines in waiting rooms, include men’s health posters, use gender neutral décor
- Consider whether your health services are meeting boys’ and mens’ needs -address any potential fears about confidentiality, consider holding special clinics or health screenings for men, provide special clinics in areas close to where men might congregate (e.g. football clubs, workplaces)
- Get to know your patients - use consultations to ask questions about their broader health and well-being and look out for broader signs of problems that men may not voluntarily disclose
Some resources members might find useful include: