As Tasmanians prepare to vote in a state election, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is calling on all political parties to commit to urgent reforms to improve healthcare access for rural, remote, and First Nations communities. 

Despite significant investment in training Rural Generalists (RGs), doctors with broad and advanced skills to provide care beyond the urban footprint, systemic barriers are preventing them from working to their full scope within the state. 

“A doctor trained in Tasmania should be able to practise in Tasmania,” ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says. 

“We’re hearing from RGs who are qualified, committed to rural, remote and First Nations healthcare, and ready to serve, but they’re moving interstate to work because they’re not supported to use their full skillset in their home state.” 

The Tasmanian Government’s recent commitment to a RG employment model, announced following the 2024 Bush Summit, is a welcome step.  

The directive calls for RGs to be employed in areas with workforce shortages, where patients could receive more timely care close to home. 

“We’re pleased the government has listened to the sector and acknowledged the important role RGs can play,” Dr Martin says. “This new employment model has real potential, but it must be fully embedded, supported by clear policy, and backed with long-term investment.” 

“This election is a key opportunity for all parties to demonstrate a genuine commitment to rural, remote, and First Nations healthcare by enabling RGs to work flexibly across hospitals and primary care, and by supporting them to stay long-term in rural Tasmania.” 

“Ultimately, this is about ensuring that all Tasmanians, no matter where they live, have access to equitable healthcare.”