$10 MILLION BOOST FOR RURAL HEALTH

Nationals’ Senator for New South Wales, Senator Fiona Nash has welcomed plans by the Federal Government to dedicate a further $10.2 million a year to health services in rural and remote Australia, saying recent announcements to improve the standard of health care in rural communities demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to the bush. In the first of two announcements made by the Minister for Health and Ageing Tony Abbott, rural procedural GPs will soon be able to claim up to $15,000 per year as part of the Australian Government’s Practice Incentives Program. “The shortage of health professionals in country areas is an ongoing concern. We need to do all we can to support those who are committed to providing essential services like obstetric, surgical and anaesthetic services in rural communities,” Senator Nash said. “This payment – double that currently being paid – will hopefully encourage GPs involved in the incentive program to continue working and providing vital procedural services in the communities where they’re needed.” Coinciding with the funding announcement, the Health Minister also announced a new measure allowing pregnant women in rural and remote areas, to claim a Medicare rebate on antenatal checks provided by qualified nurses, midwives and registered Aboriginal Health Workers on behalf of a GP or specialist. Expected to be introduced by the middle of the year, Senator Nash said the new Medicare item will promote better health care by building on the services already available. “By allowing nurses, midwives and Aboriginal Health Workers to provide Medicare rebated services, the Australian Government is ensuring the current workforce in country areas is being effectively utilised, providing the highest possible standard of health care for people in rural Australia.” Media Contact: Julie Siegert 0429 818 600

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