RURAL health will receive a $550m boost to align the distribution of medical professionals to areas of greater need and build the health workforce under the 2018 budget.
The Stronger Rural Health Strategy includes a number of initiatives, including the establishment of five regional medical schools, workforce incentive programs, additional vocational training places and training programs.
Junior doctor rotations in rural primary care settings will be expanded from the current 240 rotations to more than 1000 when fully implemented.
An additional 100 rural generalist training positions will start in 2021, with the Rural Doctors Association of Australia commending the Federal Government’s multi-pronged approach to health.
