Lack of Rural Healthcare Access Leading to Increased Hospitalisations

New data released today highlights a concerning trend: many illnesses among Australians living in rural, regional, and remote areas could have been prevented or better managed with accessible primary care, thereby avoiding the need for hospitalisation.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reports that these areas have higher rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations, underscoring the urgent need for early interventions and consistent healthcare, particularly for noncommunicable diseases. With over 7 million Australians residing in rural areas, the lack of access to preventive healthcare services has become a critical issue. Susi Tegen, Chief Executive of the National Rural Health Alliance, emphasized the challenges faced by rural communities: “We often see rural communities neglecting or delaying their health issues due to limited access to primary care. This problem is compounded by the tyranny of distance and the cost of services, leading to a cascade of issues that overwhelm an already strained hospital and emergency system.”

Ms. Tegen called for increased, strategic investment in rural healthcare to address these challenges.

“Independent research last year revealed an annual health spending defcit of $6.55 billion in rural Australia. We strongly advocate for greater investment in rural healthcare, which should focus on multidisciplinary and place-based solutions tailored to the specifc needs of these communities.”

The Alliance has proposed the Primary care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Services (PRIM-HS) model, a community-led, co-designed initiative aimed at addressing the unique health needs of rural populations.

The model seeks to improve primary healthcare experiences by providing culturally safe, high-quality care, which could signifcantly reduce the rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations in rural, regional, and remote Australia.

“The implementation of the PRIM-HS model, supported by federal and state/ territory government partnerships, would enable the establishment and sustainability of more rural primary care practices. This would provide essential care that many metropolitan communities take for granted,” Ms. Tegen added.

The National Rural Health Alliance, comprising 53 national organizations, is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people living in rural and remote Australia. Its membership includes representatives from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organizations, service providers, educators, and students, all committed to advocating for better healthcare access and outcomes for rural communities.