The 12th National Rural Health Conference is for all who care about improving the health and wellbeing of the people of rural, regional and remote Australia. That includes the 7.5 million who live in those areas, as well as many who work with and for country people but are based in the major cities.
Whatever your interest in healthy, sustainable and resilient rural communities, the NRHA would like to invite you to the Adelaide Convention Centre from 7-10 April 2013. Whether you are a consumer, a health professional, a researcher or a manager, you will be able to engage at the Conference with subjects and people of interest to you.
It’s a health conference, but one that recognises the broad determinants of health and the critical role played in rural health and wellbeing by education, rural industries and a wide range of sectors and professions. So the Conference will have plenty for rural citizens and those working in rural education, regional development, housing, local government, community services, transport and infrastructure – as well as health professionals from all disciplines.
The two-speed economy in rural and remote areas poses challenges for the delivery of publicly-funded services, especially in health and education. There has been widespread discussion of how to ensure that the benefits of Australia’s economic growth are shared fairly between various communities, industry sectors and professions. And thanks to the make-up of the Federal Parliament, there has been a strong focus on both rural issues and a regional approach to government.
Come and share your views on these issues with others who have a Strong Commitment and who believe there is a Bright Future for the health and wellbeing of rural communities. And hear up-to-date reports on rural health research and service models that are working well, from both experienced and up-and-coming researchers and policy makers. Hear the latest views on meeting some of the rural health workforce challenges. Talk with people about how Medicare Locals and Local Hospital Networks will relate to each other in country areas. And bring your experience of successes in rural education, transport, and care for the elderly.
How do experts now see the challenge of equal health for the people of rural Australia by 2020? And what part in that future will you play yourself?