What is rural? Keynote speech at the XI EURIPA Forum 2022

Abstract

Background. In order to consider the question of “what is rural”, the author chose to use examples from her journey as a rural family doctor (general practitioner) in Australia. Objective. To consider the diversity of rural practice settings and medical practice styles in primary care that can all be considered to be rural medical practice. In doing so, to consider the size and population density of Australia, compared to Europe, from where the audience of The European Rural and Isolated Practitioners Association (EURIPA) originates. Results. In discussing rural locations where the author has practiced, the Modified Monash Model of classifications of rurality, used in Australia, is introduced. It will be shown that rural medical practice varies significantly even in places of similar classifications of rurality. In some towns, the family doctors do procedural work or admit patients to hospital. In other towns and remote communities, an unwell patient may need to be looked after in the primary care clinic for hours before they can be evacuated. These are however all variations of rural practice. Does population or the occupations that workers engage in make any difference to rurality? Does distance from a capital city matter? Conclusions. Rural medical practice is diverse in location, cultures and work undertaken. Rural medical doctors use different names for themselves such as rural family doctor, rural family physician, rural generalist, rural primary care doctor – we are all rural.