AMA (NSW) President: We need to support doctors to work in rural, regional and remote NSW

Doctors who have dedicated their lives to working in rural, regional and remote NSW need better support, said AMA (NSW) President, Dr Danielle McMullen.

“Rural, regional and remote NSW residents deserve equitable healthcare and to do that we need a strong and supported workforce, including opportunities to train in these areas,” said AMA (NSW) President, Dr Danielle McMullen.

“No patient or family should be left to think ‘what if’ and wonder if their care or the care of their loved one would have been different if they lived in a metropolitan centre.

“Rural and regional communities need health funding that recognises the significant barriers to accessing care and the other drivers of ill-health, such as delayed diagnosis.

“We need to work constructively with medical professionals to find solutions that work for people in rural, regional and remote communities,” said Dr McMullen.

“We also need to value those doctors working in rural and regional NSW. They live and work in these communities, their kids go to school with their patients’ kids, they belong to the same community clubs and activities. They want the best outcomes for their patients and work tirelessly for their communities. “We know from doctors working in rural and regional NSW that the support and partnership with their patients is the best part of the work they do.

“AMA (NSW) is making several recommendations to the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into access to health and hospital services in rural, regional and remote NSW.

“We want to see more training options for doctors in regional areas so that we can attract and retain a medical workforce in these locations.

“Increased and ongoing support of comprehensive primary healthcare for these communities is also essential.

“Communities needs appropriate infrastructure and appropriate workforce planning to effectively deliver services in these areas.

“Despite the current challenges and barriers to healthcare, there are many dedicated medical professionals working in rural, regional and remote NSW. They deserve recognition and support. They are committed to their communities and their desire to provide quality healthcare should be acknowledged,” Dr McMullen said.