Colin Boyce, Member for Callide, is in full support of the Federal LNP Government’s plans for attracting and retaining doctors and nurse practitioners to our country towns.
“I’ve long been an advocate for getting professionals into the country and I think that if we can get them here, they will discover the hidden secrets of friendly towns like Moura, Theodore and Biloela.”
From January 1, 2022, the Government will eliminate individual Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debts for those who choose to work in rural, remote, or very remote locations for specified periods. This will give them a head start in their careers in rural areas and acknowledgement of the value of them choosing a rural location.
“What this means for the country, is that we can attract doctors out into our areas. They will live in these areas that desperately need to have their services, whether it’s to support our retiring GPs or simply to work in the hospitals that are having difficulty obtaining staff. There is a direct cash benefit to them by residing in our areas of need.”
With an incentive to stay in these areas for a longer length of time than just for their training, it is expected that this will quickly ease the shortage issues that we currently experience.
“If every doctor stays just a bit longer it makes a tremendous difference to the number of doctors out here and a greater chance that they, their partners and families will recognise the benefits of a rural life. It will allow time to embrace our way of life with community groups and sports teams, fresh air and national parks, and settle permanently in the country.
“It will also mean that our existing doctors can share the load and stay longer.
“It’s a win-win situation for everyone.”
- Tags: Biloela, Colin Boyce MP, GPs, local news, medical services, Theodore
