The National Rural Health Alliance welcomes the new role of a Rural Health Commissioner after the passing of a legislation to establish the role.
The new commissioner is seen by the alliance as a potential game changer for health in rural areas, including the Hunter region.
The alliance supports the initial establishment of general practices in rural communities with the commissioner working with the alliance to ensure rural communities receive proper health care, such as making sure the Rural Generalist Pathway runs smoothly.
The alliance is looking forward to working with the commissioner as they'll bring a new perspective on rural health.
National Rural Health Alliance CEO David Butt says the commissioner won't be the sole answer to all rural health issues.
"We think this is a great initiative, however, we do just want to be clear that the commissioner is not going to be able to do all things for rural and remote Australia.
"One person will be tremendously and strategically placed in advising the minister directly. All governments need to work together to develop solutions for rural and remote Australia, as we can't rely on one person to be all things to all people in rural Australia".
He also states the commissioner will have a broader review due to amendments to the legislation.
"The minister had said that he wanted the commissioner to have a broader view but this establishes that in the legislation. So to look more broadly at other issues within rural health.
"It also enables a review of the timeframe for the legislation. In the current legislation, it expires at the end of June 2020 and of course, issues in rural and remote Australia won't have been resolved by then".
 |
| Credit- National Rural Health Alliance Website |
