The available evidence from the past 20 years of government interventions can inform future priorities
Australia is in a critical period of rural workforce policy reform. The Australian government is responding to a surge of domestic and international doctors, while addressing the pervasive problem of geographic and specialty maldistribution.1 There is renewed commitment to strengthen rural health policy and further develop a well skilled, adaptable rural general practitioner workforce. GPs underpin resilient, healthy rural and remote communities and are essential for a coordinated and efficient health system.2 This article seeks to inform future directions and research priorities by reflecting on 20 years of policy activity and outcomes.
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