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11 - Conclusion
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- By Karen Francis, Charles Sturt University, Ysanne Chapman, James Cook University, Charles Sturt University, Monash University and the University of Adelaide, Faye McMillan, Charles Sturt University, Jane Havelka, Charles Sturt University
- Karen Francis, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Ysanne Chapman, Central Queensland University, Carmel Davies, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales
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- Book:
- Rural Nursing
- Published online:
- 06 August 2018
- Print publication:
- 22 August 2014, pp 176-184
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- Chapter
- Export citation
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Summary
Learning objectives
On completion of this chapter, the reader will be able to:
discuss the implications for nursing practice in rural and remote Australia
describe the diversity of populations who reside in rural and remote Australia
appreciate the common health challenges of rural people at each stage of the lifespan
identify strategies for securing a sustainable nursing and midwifery workforce for rural and remote practice
isolate future opportunities for nurses and midwives working in rural and remote practice settings.
Key words
Rural and remote populations, culture, health status, nursing and midwifery, research
Chapter overview
The final chapter provides a précis of the book content followed by concluding remarks on the future of rural communities, the health workforce, and challenges and opportunities for nurses and midwives who wish to practise and advance their careers in rural settings.
Introduction
Understanding the nature and character of rural Australia and of the people who live there is a prerequisite for anyone contemplating practice in these contexts. The vastness of the land and the diversity of the populations who reside in it are reflective of the opportunities available. Nurses and midwives are the largest group of health professionals and the most evenly distributed throughout Australia (Francis & Mills, 2011; Health Workforce Australia [HWA], 2012). The contribution they make to the health and wellbeing of rural Australians is significant. Choosing to work in rural and remote Australia is a wise career option that affords opportunities to extend and advance practice that impacts positively on individuals, groups and communities.