Why Doctors Would Stay in Rural Practice in the New England Health Area of New South Wales

Retention of rural doctors is a critical factor in effectively addressing the well-documented maldistribution of the medical workforce. The present study explores the reasons why rural doctors working in north-western New South Wales left their previous practice, moved to their current practice and have considered moving to another practice. In addition, these doctors were also asked as to the most effective strategies in retaining rural doctors and which organisations could make a valuable contribution in making rural general practice more attractive. As the doctor's choices concerning their practice locations involve judgements relating to a complex array of factors, there are a great number of priority actions involving many stakeholders that can impact positively on the retention of rural doctors. In addition to strictly professional issues, such as access to hospitals, a reasonable work load and a good level of procedural work, other issues, such as the availability of good social and cultural facilities, work opportunities for one's partner and good educational facilities for one's children, have a great bearing on the doctor's decision where to practise. Put differently, while the professional environment needs to be conducive to good rural practice, rural doctors are also human beings, requiring appropriate facilities to meet their 'quality of life' needs.