National Rural Health Commissioner tours local Collaborative Care project

The Rural Doctors Network (RDN) recently hosted National Rural Health Commissioner Professor Ruth Stewart on a tour of the Collaborative Care project spanning the Snowy Valleys and Gundagai areas. 

Accompanying Professor Stewart on her 23 April visit were representatives from the Department of Health and Aged Care, who have been instrumental in supporting the initiative through the Innovative Models of Care grant program. This program was delivered in partnership with local GPs, allied health providers, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN), and Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD). 

During her visit, Professor Stewart engaged directly with three local GPs who trialled the Shared Medical Appointment model, specifically tailored for patients with chronic illnesses. This trial marked a significant milestone, representing the first implementation of this model in the Murrumbidgee region. The Commissioner also met with Snowy Valley councillors, members of the Aboriginal Health Team at Tumut Health Service, and local health practitioners. 

Professor Stewart is a staunch advocate for the value of innovative care models in rural communities, where the health system often struggles to meet the diverse needs of residents. 

For more information about the Snowy Valleys Collaborative Care project, please visit nswrdn.engagementhub.com.au/snowyvalleys