More than 1000 health experts from across Australia are expected to gather in Hobart on Sunday, calling for a federal government commitment to boost rural health spending.
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The call comes on the first day of the 15th National Rural Health Conference, which will address the case for urgent new rural health spending.
National Rural Health Alliance chairwoman Tanya Lehmann said a focus on creating and sustaining a rural health workforce was essential.
"The last [federal] election promised a National Rural Health Commissioner," Ms Lehmann said.
"The appointment of Prof Paul Worley as commissioner was welcome.
"Also welcome has been the commissioner's increased focus on the allied health professions - most of which are fractionally represented in much of rural Australia.
"It is essential that the commissioner has a focus on creating and sustaining a rural health workforce where it is clear that the solutions require the involvement of related service sectors - including aged care, mental health, disability and Indigenous healthcare."
National Rural Health Alliance chief executive Mark Diamond said additional funding was urgently needed for additional allied health staff across the country.
"Commissioner Worley has made recommendations on training and work pathways for Rural Generalist Medical Practitioners. That work now needs to continue with the range of other health professions that are in even greater need of repair," he said.
"The Federal Budget on April 2 must fully fund the training pathway for Rural Generalist Practitioners.
'But then, funding is urgently needed for additional allied health staff across country areas."
Australia Royal Flying Doctor Service chief executive Dr Martin Laverty said chronic illness was expected to balloon over the next decade and the rural health system was not funded to cope.
"Cancer will jump 15 per cent, mental illness 22 per cent, and Alzheimer's and dementia 47 per cent. Country people have accepted less service access for too long. An election boost can deliver more care," Dr Laverty said.
The National Rural Health Conference will run from March 24 to 27.
Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
