Improving mental health for rural health workers: Caring for our carers.
Fran Avon is the CEO of Rural Doctors Foundation. She enjoys doing something different from her daily role by researching and penning articles on health issues.
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Learn about the impact of GP stress and burnout in rural communities. Discover how Rural Doctors Foundation is tackling rural doctor burnout in Australia with primary care programs.
In the heart of Australia’s rural and remote communities, rural doctors are more than just healthcare providers—they’re pillars of their communities. But behind the scenes, many face overwhelming stress, isolation, and burnout. At Rural Doctors Foundation, we understand these challenges because we’ve lived them. We’re here to support the wellbeing of rural GPs and health workers across Australia.
The reality of doctor burnout in Australia
Burnout isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a crisis. Rural doctors, nurses and health worders often work long hours, with limited support, and in communities where they may be the only medical professional for hundreds of kilometres. Our research report, Health of rural practitioners_2023 shows
- 73% of rural GPshave experienced burnout in the past 12 months.
- 23% work more than 60 hours per week, with hours increasing the more remote the location.
- 32% of doctors in remote areasare the only medical practitioner in their town.
- 44% of rural doctors travel over 300kmto access healthcare, with some travelling over 800km
These figures reflect the lived experience of doctors who are stretched thin, often working multiple roles, and struggling to find time for their own health.
According to the AMA’s Rural Health Issues Survey, rural doctors report:
- Higher rates of psychological distress and suicidal thoughts than the general population
- Longer working hours with patients who have complex health needs
- Fewer health workers to share the load
This combination of stress in rural medical practice and isolation leads many to consider leaving their communities—leaving patients without care.
We believe every rural doctor deserves access to the same
quality care they provide their patients.
Mental health resources for remote health workers
We believe every rural doctor deserves access to the same quality care they provide their patients. That’s why we created GPs4RuralDocs, a program offering:
- Confidential, independent healthcare
- Face-to-face clinics and telehealth support
- Mental health care from experienced yet independent rural GPs
These services are designed specifically for rural health practitioners, helping them stay well and stay in their communities.
Supporting the wellbeing of rural health workers
Our approach is grounded in empathy and lived experience. We know rural doctors, nurses and health workers often delay their own care due to workload or lack of local services. In fact:
- 50% of rural health practitioners don’t seek healthcare due to lack of access
- 75% travel over 100km for care
- 17% are considering leaving rural practice due to these barriers
GPs4RuralDocs removes these barriers, allowing doctors to prioritise their own wellbeing without leaving town.
Funding health services for doctors and health workers
We’re proud to advocate for increased funding to expand mental health services for rural doctors. Our recent budget submission and proposals highlight:
- The need for direct healthcare beyond self-care programs
- The importance of continuity of care for rural practitioners
- The cost savings of keeping doctors healthy and in their communities
We’re calling on government and community partners to help us grow this vital program.
Real stories, real impact
Doctors Paul and Katie Chang and Nurse Leanne Patton share their stories and advocate for better health care for health professionals. Their stories show the power of support, connection, and access to care. Read more or watch Our video.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re a doctor, nurse health worker, supporter, donor, or advocate, you can make a difference:
Contact us if you’re a rural health practitioner in need of support.
Donate to help us expand our services.
Share this blog to raise awareness
Together, we can reduce rural doctor burnout in Australia and build healthier communities.
Having lived in the Northern Territory, Fran understands the challenges of access to health care for those living in remote communities. Fran is working to improve the health outcomes for those living far from major centres.