Dr Hobbs, who is also a rural GP, said the report confirms that rural Australians do not have the same access to health services as their city counterparts.

"We desperately need to address this inequity," Dr Hobbs said.

"For example, take Medicare utilisation. In Sydney’s Double Bay it is approximately $900 per person whilst in the Kimberly it is around $80 per person.

"As highlighted in yesterday’s report Australia is suffering from severe workforce shortages, particularly in rural and regional areas.

"Medicare utilisation rates reflect this as do the health outcomes of regional Australians.

"Australia needs a health funding system that recognises local needs and allows for innovation to combat local problems, be they higher levels of lifestyle related conditions, an ageing population, workforce shortages or a combination.

"In this year’s budget submission we have called for a national training package for orientating IMGs to the health system, providing ongoing support to IMGs in general practice and also requested a commitment to continue to fund the Rural Outreach Vocational Education (ROVE)* initiative for a further three year term," he said.

"As well as providing incentives for new health professionals to go the rural areas, we need to further capitalise on the skills of our existing clinical workforce and encourage team-based care arrangements. Essentially ensuring patients get the right treatment from the right clinician at the right time."

SOURCE: AGPN