Prof. Carol McKinstry1, Claire Quilliam2, Nicole Crawford3
1La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia, 2University of Melbourne, Shepparton, Australia, 3Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
Biography:
Carol McKinstry is Professor of Occupational Therapy and Deputy Dean of the La Trobe University’s Rural Health School. She is Chair of Academic Board at La Trobe University and lead of the Workforce Stream in the Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research. She is also Deputy Chair of Bendigo Health Board and a Board Director of Occupational Therapy Australia.
Abstract:
There has been many government and community initiatives to address Australian rural health workforce issues, however could more be achieved through collaboration? Access to higher education, including health courses is still limited for those living outside of metropolitan centres however the recent Australian Universities Accord Report seeks to address student inequities through initiatives such as the Regional University Study Hub (RUSH) program. Improving participation in tertiary education is at the heart of the Accord and essential for a sustainable rural health workforce. While there are different funding organisations for the various rural health stakeholders, there are common goals to improving health outcomes for rural Australians. Collaborations with RUSHs, University Departments of Rural Health, rural health services and communities could further enhance support for students studying and on placement in rural areas, particularly those in under-served areas, and in turn strengthen the rural health workforce and address rural health outcomes. This paper will outline opportunities for cross sector collaboration to increase the effectiveness of the pipeline of rural allied health students to health professionals, including drawing on existing rural infrastructure to deliver allied health courses and support mature-aged students to study and thrive. Identifying the role of peak allied health professional bodies in removing barriers relating to course restructure and accreditation is vital. Future steps toward stronger cross sector collaboration for the health of rural communities and potential barriers to overcome developing these collaborations will be discussed.