The Remote ACCHS Workforce Response (RAWR) programme addresses the critical workforce shortage in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Without ongoing access to General Practitioners (GPs) and Registered Nurses (RNs), many Indigenous communities are at greater risk of being affected by the pandemic.
Following a variation to the RAHC Funding Agreement in June 2020, RAWR commenced in July of that year. It offers HPs 12-week placements in remote health clinics and Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) around Australia.
“The RAWR programme is a vital workforce response to COVID-19 and has helped distribute vaccines throughout remote Australia. It is extremely rewarding to build relationships with clinics and health professionals and know that every person placed makes a difference,” says RAWR Placement Coordinator Luke Platten.
“I am very proud of the quick response in getting HPs into community and getting COVID-19 vaccination underway.”
The programme has now been running for 18 months. In that time, 65 placements have taken place across 21 communities, servicing a total of 13 ACCHS.
“RAWR ensures remote communities have continued access to health services. As a Regional Coordinator, it is fulfilling to know that HPs are accessible and individuals can get their regular health checks,” says RAWR Regional Coordinator Elizabeth Sabino.
To ensure all HPs feel well prepared and supported for their remote placements, RAHC provides ongoing 24/7 support throughout the placement, cultural orientation and professional development opportunities. Travel and accommodation are provided, plus an additional two weeks’ allowance where isolation is required.
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To learn more about the programme, visit: https://www.rahc.com.au/RAWR