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Royal Flying Doctor Service Tackles Rural Healthcare Worker Shortage

Back Country Bulletin

Kimberly Grabham

09 June 2025, 11:00 PM

Royal Flying Doctor Service Tackles Rural Healthcare Worker Shortage

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is implementing new initiatives to address critical healthcare workforce shortages across remote communities in western New South Wales.


The organisation is working to create clear pathways to encourage healthcare workers to relocate to remote areas, where access to medical services remains a significant challenge for residents.


Communities across the region, including Wilcannia, Menindee, and Tibooburra, often struggle with limited access to healthcare professionals, forcing residents to travel hundreds of kilometres for medical treatment.


The RFDS initiative aims to provide incentives and support structures to make rural practice more attractive to doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.


This includes offering professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration packages, and improved working conditions.


"Rural and remote communities deserve the same quality healthcare as their metropolitan counterparts," said an RFDS spokesperson.


"These initiatives are designed to ensure that distance doesn't determine the quality of care people receive."


The program comes as many western NSW towns face an ageing population and increasing demand for healthcare services, while simultaneously struggling to attract and retain medical professionals.


Local councils and community groups have welcomed the initiative, with many expressing hope that it will help address long-standing healthcare access issues in their regions.


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