Telehealth in drought affected areas now covered by Medicare rebates
For the first time, rural GPs in drought-affected areas will be able to bill Medicare for mental health consultations by phone.
Rural youth mental health outreach program launched to support rural western NSW
Mental health challenges in rural areas of Australia are particularly concerning, with statistics showing that one in four young people experience mental health concerns over a 12 month period.
To help tackle this significant issue, the Benevolent Society has partnered with Bila Muuji Aboriginal Corporation Health Service – an organisation that provides Primary Health Care representation to the Aboriginal Medical Services across the Western and Far West of NSW – to offer the Rural Youth Mental Health (RYMH) service.
Get your “Glove Box Guide to Mental Health”
The 2018 Glove Box Guide to Mental Health, released by The Land in partnership with the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP), is a 64 page resource which includes personal stories, advice, support and contact information to help improve the mental health and wellbeing of rural communities.
Proud Country on ABC Four Corners
Quirindi GP, Dr Luqman Nasar, was interviewed by the ABC’s Four Corners as part of a report into the devastating impact the NSW drought is having on rural communities.
Nyngan’s two green chairs bring relief from drought
In Nyngan Rural Agencies two chairs plastic green chairs aren’t just a resting place to wait for supplies, they have become a spot where farmers can travel up to hundreds of kilometres to discuss politics, sport and the weather to take their mind off drought.
Amid drought’s terrible toll, we do not walk alone
I’m sure I speak for many GPs who are looking out the window at empty dusty paddocks, dying trees and sad stock. Every afternoon hungry kangaroos hop through our carpark to graze on the few green sprouts in the practice garden.
How can GPs best help people in Australia’s drought-affected regions?
Rural and remote GPs in NSW and Queensland are finding novel ways of reaching people badly affected by the record-breaking drought.