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NSW Doctor magazine out now - research confirms Rural Health Pro is strengthening rural health workforce
13th October 2025
Research has confirmed the role of RDN’s Rural Health Pro in supporting the mental health and community engagement of rural health professionals, highlighting its pivotal role in reducing professional isolation and enhancing the overall wellbeing of healthcare providers.
As detailed in the latest edition of The NSW Doctor magazine – the flagship publication of the Australian Medical Association (NSW) – research in the Australian Journal of Rural Health confirms the initiative has enhanced the capability of rural health professionals.
The following is an excerpt from an article published in the Winter 2025 Edition of AMA NSW Doctor Magazine.
Working as a rural health professional is rich with rewards and country people will tell you that dedicated doctors, nurses and allied health professionals are some of the most valued members in the fabric of a community - and their gratitude shows. All of this on top of the lifestyle benefits of living in coastal, mountain or country areas of Australia.
Nevertheless, for all this richness, the experience of rural practice can feel isolating and capability can suffer when training and networking opportunities seem distant.
With this in mind, Rural Doctors Network (RDN) launched a social enterprise in 2020 called Rural Health Pro. The enterprise seeks to connect, support and inspire health professionals and organisations that care about rural communities. Through a unique partnership approach, its digital hub and mobile app provide information, resources, and training opportunities, supporting the capabilities of rural health professionals.
The initiative featured in the Australian Digital Health Agency’s National Digital Health Strategy (2023-2028) and new research published in the Australian Journal of Rural Health confirms that it has enhanced the capability of rural health professionals. Titled, Rural Health Pro—A Digital Platform Connecting Rural People, Organisations, and Communities, the study corroborates literature about the role of digital technologies in overcoming geographical barriers and fostering community among health professionals in rural settings.
Click here to read the full article in the latest edition of NSW Doctor magazine on page 37.
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