On National Close the Gap Day today, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) recognises the contribution First Nations members are making to the healthcare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and rural and remote communities.
The College notes the recommendations in the newly released Close the Gap Campaign report 2023, themed Strong Culture, Strong Youth: Our Legacy, Our Future, which includes developing a dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander policy that promotes both culture and the cultural determinants of health.
ACRRM President Dr Dan Halliday says the report recommendations align with the College’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), particularly in developing strengths-based, place-based, community-led social and emotional wellbeing initiatives in association with the ACCHO sector.
“ACRRM's RAP is a reflection of our commitment to promote reconciliation, respect First Nations cultures and traditions, and work towards achieving health equity for all Australians,” Dr Halliday says.
“It aims to strengthen our appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and traditions and confirms the College's commitment to building Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in rural general practice and rural generalism.
“The College will seek to contribute to the recommendations in the report and continue to focus on actions towards implementation of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2021-31, and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Strategic Framework and Implementation Plan 2021-31.
“There is much to do if we are to realise our vision for reconciliation, which is to achieve equity of access to high quality, culturally safe and appropriate healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.
“We will continue to work with members and communities on locally significant issues, reforms and developments, and our expansion into the regions will play a part in this.
“We are also working towards further strengthening partnerships with First Nations stakeholders, to develop policies and programs that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander registrars, Fellows, and members, as well as the communities where they live and work.
“ACRRM is committed to increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellows, supporting them into and on their journey to Fellowship and throughout their careers. “This is pivotal to achieving our vision of better health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
ENDS