RAHC Info
The Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC) was established in late 2008 with funding from the Federal Government’s Expanding Health Service Delivery Initiative (EHSDI). RAHC is designed to mobilize urban-based health professionals – doctors, nurses, dental and allied health - to work in primary health services for Indigenous people in remote areas of the Northern Territory (NT). Assignments are paid and for short periods of three weeks to three months enabling health professionals to maintain their professional and personal obligations at home while participating in efforts to improve Indigenous health.
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Up to January 31, 2009, RAHC has placed more than 285 healthcare professionals in 50 health services and communities throughout the NT (see map for communities RAHC is currently servicing). Health professionals receive cultural and clinical training and orientation including participation in an obligatory 2-day program delivered in Alice Springs or Darwin before their first placement commences. RAHC provides ongoing support during a placement and primarily seeks to ensure the placement is successful for both the health professional and the health centre and community.
The Remote Area Health Corps is a new and innovative approach to supporting workforce needs in remote health services and provides the opportunity for health professionals to make a contribution to closing the gap.
The roll-out of RAHC involves a pivotal collaboration with Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory and the Northern Territory Department of Health and Families (NT DHF).
