Supporting doctors and medical students
Funding mentoring, education and support programs for doctors, interns and medical students
Providing support when it is needed most
The beauty of our rural and remote areas is breath-taking but for some the isolation can be confronting. For a rural doctor new to a community or a medical student completing their rural training, this feeling can be overwhelming. Imagine how daunting it could be – removed from family and friends and without the support of colleagues, especially if you have to make decisions that could save a life.
Rural doctors are often more than a doctor – they are a confidant, a counsellor, a strong shoulder to cry on and a friend. They are the support for the community.
But, what happens when they need support.
Rural Doctors Foundation, in partnership with Rural Doctors Association Queensland (RDAQ) is a listening ear, offering training and mentoring programs and financial support when needed.
It’s about rural doctors sharing their expertise and being there with advice or simply a word of encouragement.
Something as simple as being on the end of a phone or organising a social event to introduce a new doctor or student to their rural community has such an impact. Access to the latest training tools or being part of network of like-minded colleagues can make a huge difference.

“having a mentor who understands the challenges of being a rural doctor and is on hand to provide advice is invaluable.”
How we help by providing funding
Offering a listening ear when times are tough or being a cheerleader to share in your achievements
Providing a forum for doctors in training to share experiences and learning
Sharing new techniques such as reflective practice to improve patient care and self care
Facilitating medical education and training
Offering bursaries to medical students to attend rural health conferences and training
Providing financial support for education for spouses to keep doctors in rural communities