The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have established a Joint Consultative Committee on Rural Generalist Medicine (JCCRG), reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthen and advance Rural Generalist Medicine across Australia.
The committee brings together leaders and representatives from both colleges to provide guidance on Rural Generalist Medicine, supporting high-quality, culturally safe care for rural, remote and First Nations communities.
The colleges have invited National Rural Health Commissioner Professor Jenny May AM to chair the new committee.
Professor May says the formation of the JCCRGM reflects a significant further step towards the embedding of rural generalism.
"Bringing together the expertise of both colleges creates an important opportunity to support the ongoing development of Rural Generalist Medicine and ensure rural, remote and First Nations communities continue to have access to high-quality care.
"The Committee will provide an important forum to guide the future development of the profession and support nationally coordinated approaches to key priorities."
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says Specialist Rural Generalists play a vital role in delivering comprehensive care in rural, remote and First Nations communities, and it is important the profession continues to be supported through strong standards, training and recognition.
"The JCCRG will focus on areas of shared interest, with an initial focus on standards, curriculum and advanced skills training," Dr Martin says.
"We will also bring in governments, stakeholders and communities to advance ongoing work on Rural Generalist training and scope of practice."
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright says the JCCRG provides an important opportunity to work through shared priorities in a coordinated way.
"Everyone in Australia deserves access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of their postcode, and Rural Generalists play a critical role in delivering that care," he says.
"By working together through this committee, we can strengthen training, standards and support for Rural Generalists, helping more doctors build rewarding careers in rural, remote and First Nations communities."
