ePoster
Presentation Description
Institution: Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital - QLD, Australia
Rural surgery faces unique challenges that impact both the quality of care and the wellbeing of healthcare providers. Limited resources, workforce shortages, and geographic barriers often hinder timely access to surgical interventions for rural patients, contributing to poorer outcomes and health disparities. A 2020 study found that 26% of Australians live in rural areas, yet only 14% of surgeons practice in these regions. Additionally, rural patients face up to 50% longer wait times for surgery compared to urban counterparts. Geographic barriers further complicate access, with rural patients traveling an average of 200 kilometers to access care. This review explores these challenges while highlighting strategies such as enhancing surgical training for rural practice, expanding telemedicine, and exploring mobile surgical units. Policy changes are also discussed, including increased financial support and rural surgical incentives. This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive reforms, integrating innovative technologies and community support to improve patient outcomes and ensure high-quality care in rural areas.
Presenters
Authors
Authors
Dr Arunan Jeyakumar -