Time to celebrate #RuralPositive

We've all come across those alarming stories, front-page headlines, and the dreaded word "crisis" repeatedly mentioned in the media and political speeches.

The health sector is undoubtedly facing significant challenges, especially in rural and remote parts of Australia. It's a relief that the problems are finally gaining recognition, along with the acknowledgement of the difficulties faced by our rural health professionals in delivering care to their communities.

However, it's important to remember that this situation is a double-edged sword. The more we focus on the challenges and use alarming terms like "crisis", the harder it becomes to inspire the next generation of health professionals to consider working in rural and remote areas as part of their careers. It also leads those living in remote locations to question whether it's worth staying there. Don't get me wrong; it’s crucial to shed light on the gaps and shortcomings. But we must also celebrate and demonstrate that being a rural health professional is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career. Let's highlight the positive aspects too!

That's why Rural Health Pro is excited to introduce two projects aimed at providing a balanced perspective. Firstly, we are thrilled to announce the inaugural?National Rural and Remote Health Awards?at Parliament House in Canberra on 13 November. We are delighted that Professor Ruth Stewart, the National Rural Health Commissioner, has agreed to join us for the event and celebrate the amazing work of our health professionals in rural and remote Australia.

The National Rural and Remote Health Awards are designed to honour exceptional health professionals who have significantly contributed to healthcare in these regions across Australia. The event will bring together stakeholders from the rural and remote health sectors, creating a platform to showcase and recognise the extraordinary efforts of these remarkable individuals and organisations. We have ten award categories that cover various aspects of care and service within our sector. Nominations will open in a few weeks, and we can't wait to hear the good news stories that deserve to be shared.

These Awards originated from the #RuralPositive campaign initiated by NSW Rural Doctors Network during the challenging times of COVID-19. It aimed to express gratitude for the service and dedication of our rural health professionals. The campaign received support from the health industry, including organisations like NRHA, RDAA, IAHA, SARRAH, ACRRM, AMA, NAATSIHWP, RACMA, and RFDS, to name a few. Even Australian music legend Daryl Braithwaite joined in. People were eager to show their appreciation, so we're carrying forward the #RuralPositive tagline to celebrate these awards.

It's important for all of us to participate in celebrating and highlighting the benefits of working in rural and remote Australia. Let's also shine a light on the individuals and organisations that go above and beyond to deliver health services to these communities. There are countless positive stories waiting to be shared. So, please join us in celebrating your work while inspiring and motivating the next generation to embrace the fulfilling and rewarding role of a rural health professional. Together, we can make a real difference!

(This editorial first appeared on Rural Health Pro )

Sponsorship of the awards is available: Sponsorship Packages

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