A RECENT audit by the Federal Department of Health and Aged Care has highlighted the need to strengthen support for health and medical research professionals in rural, regional, and remote areas.
The report showed that only 13% of the health and medical workforce operate in these regions, despite nearly 30% of Australians living there.
This workforce shortage has raised concerns about the unequal distribution of health resources, which disproportionately affects rural communities.
The audit also found a significant underrepresentation of researchers in regional and remote areas.
National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen emphasised the importance of addressing these gaps.
"The underrepresentation of rural researchers is worrying given that rural communities face distinct health challenges that require tailored and place-based solutions," Tegen said, pointing out that funding and support often favour metropolitan researchers.
Tegen described the obstacles that regional researchers face such as limited access to training, funding, and collaborative networks, which restrict their ability to contribute effectively to rural health.
"Rural researchers become a secondary consideration for funding," she said, adding that this lack of support leaves regional health needs unmet.
Tegen called for these disparities to be addressed in the upcoming National Health and Medical Research Strategy, stressing the need for community-centred solutions in rural health research.
The National Rural Health Alliance, a coalition of 53 organisations, has urged the government to increase funding access, offer targeted training, and create collaborative opportunities for rural researchers.
With these measures, the Alliance is aiming to ensure that all rural Australians receive the same health benefits regardless of their location. JG
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