Milestone partnership between RFDS and RHPN aims to enhance health outcomes in rural and remote areas

A milestone partnership between the Royal Flying Doctor Service WA and Regional Health Professionals Network aims to enhance health outcomes in rural and remote communities. The partnership strengthens collaboration between RFDS and three regional HPNs, with a shared commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved areas by providing greater support for rural health professionals. It will also see additional HPN activity take place at RFDS bases in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Broome, and Port Hedland, including base and aircraft tours for rural health professionals. Rural Health West general manager education and engagement Leesa Thomas said having RFDS on board was a significant milestone for the growth and expansion of the HPN program. “Most of the major employers of health professionals across country WA are now partners in the HPN program, which means we can have a truly collaborative and collegiate approach to how we better support our rural clinicians,” she said. “This initiative is not just about supporting health professionals — it’s about improving the health and well-being of rural communities. “By strengthening connections between professionals and fostering collaboration, the program ensures that communities benefit from comprehensive and cohesive care delivered by teams equipped to meet their needs.” RFDS general manager aeromedical Dr Kieran Hennelly said professional isolation was a challenge for clinicians who worked in rural and remote communities. “The HPN program will help RFDS crew members build both a professional support network and community connections,” Dr Hennelly said. “If RFDS staff and their families feel embedded in a community, that helps with recruitment and retention, resulting in better health outcomes for rural and remote communities.” The HPN program aims to connect health professionals in the regions through social and educational activities, fostering multidisciplinary team-based care to improve patient care. It is operated through a Statewide partnership comprising Rural Health West, WA Country Health Service, WA Primary Health Alliance, St John WA, The Rural Clinical School of WA, and the University Departments of Rural Health.