About Rural Doctors Foundation
A rural health charity giving country people better health
Rural Doctors Foundation is a national rural health charity. We exist to give those in rural and remote regions better access to lifesaving healthcare. As rural doctors and community members, we care deeply about the places where we live and work. From the remotest outback regions to pristine coastal areas and bustling rural farming districts. Together, we’re creating meaningful change to give people a better chance at health in our regions.
As rural doctors, we see health inequities every day. There are fewer services. As well as fewer resources and fewer health professionals in the bush. And as a result, this has a great impact on disease, life expectancy, and mental wellbeing. Research shows that mortality rates are 1.8 times higher than they are in urban areas. Three in five rural people don’t see a specialist when they need to, Mostly, because there isn’t one close by.
Rural Doctors Foundation is caring, committed and connected to rural and remote communities
Our rural health charity creates change at the local level. Working on projects that directly help rural and remote people improve the health of their communities. The people we serve in rural and remote communities have unique needs. Rural Doctors Foundation recognises the diverse health needs of all people that make up regional areas.
Our work supports First Nations health and the vibrancy of Indigenous communities. As well as farming communities, and regional townships. So, it’s about working with remote and rural people, on the ground, to deliver the right support, in the right way.
Our vision
Rural doctors for rural communities
Our purpose
To support better health in rural and remote communities
Our values
Courage
We will act with conviction and integrity and take informed risks.
Trust
We will be credible, reliable, connected and selfless.
Care
We will be diligent, compassionate, responsive and effective.
Values
Courage
We will act with conviction and integrity and take informed risks.
TRUST
We will be credible, reliable, connected, and selfless.
CARE
We will be diligent, compassionate, responsive, and effective.
History
Rural Doctors Foundation was established by Rural Doctors Association Queensland. The rural health charity was born from the 2011 floods when many remote areas were in crisis and we knew something needed to be done.
Governance
Rural Doctors Foundation has a volunteer Board of Directors, supported by an Executive Team. Directors are active rural doctors and skills-based appointments. We have Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.
People
The Foundation is made up of people who understand and care deeply about rural and remote communities. Because we are part of them. People with a passion for improving health outcomes outside metro areas.
Partners
Rural Doctors Foundation partners with a select number of organisations that share our passion for rural and remote. Our partners are committed to helping us deliver life-saving healthcare solutions.
Publications
Issues facing rural and remote people need more air time. And so, we’re keen to help everyone understand them. Review our publications on important rural health topics, including our annual report.