As part of our annual planning cycle, RWAV has recently developed a new Strategic Plan to guide the organisation over the next twelve months.

The new strategic direction intends to build on our expertise, face the considerable challenges posed by our dynamic external environment and reaffirm our strong commitment to providing sustainable workforce solutions for Victorian communities of need, both in the short and longer term.

We are now in the process of finalising the Business Plan that details the “how” of implementing the plan and aligning our resources to ensure that all outcomes are achieved within agreed timeframes.

From an organisational point of view, the business planning process provides an ideal opportunity to reflect on what has worked and what hasn’t, what our core business activity is and how to more efficiently and effectively use our financial, human and system resources to maximum effect.

The process also allows us to consult with our external stakeholders to confirm our strategic partnerships and agree the mutually beneficial outcomes that can be expected and delivered.

It is indeed a very exciting time! 

Claire Austin
RWAV Chief Executive

RWAV would like to congratulate the nineteen recipients of the Rural Doctors’ Awards for their ongoing commitment to country Victoria.

The doctors and their families were acknowledged for their contributions to rural medicine at a dinner held at Hilton on the Park, Melbourne last month.

Awards were presented by the Minister for Health, the Hon. Daniel Andrews in three categories: 35 Years Service, Outstanding Contribution and New Rural Doctor.

The dinner also paid tribute to doctors who have provided, and continue to provide, locum support to bushfire-affected areas of Victoria.

Over 225 guests congratulated all doctors for the work they continue to do to sustain their local communities and provide much need medical support to country Victoria.

Nominations from all over the state were assessed by the judging panel comprising representatives from RACGP, ACRRM, Rural Doctors Association of Victoria, AMA Vic, Rural Medical Family Network and RWAV.

They agree that it is an interesting time, particularly with alternative pathways being considered for IMGs seeking to practise in areas of workforce shortage. They collectively ensure that the process is thorough, objective and defensible.

The Medical Advisers talk about their role with RWAV.

“We are impressed by the dedication of the IMGs and the essential healthcare they provide to rural Victorian communities.”

“It is most interesting and challenging to be part of that change and great to be part of the experienced and dedicated RWAV team.”

Recently announced changes to the rural and remoteness classification from RRMA to the Remoteness Area (RA) matrix will impact the incentives available to doctors and general practices.

Much of the discussion so far has surrounded on the conversion of previously classified RRMA areas to the new system on a local, state and national level.

To assist in understanding of the new classifications, the Department of Health and Ageing has developed a website at www.doctorconnect.gov.au

International keynote speaker Professor Des Gorman challenged delegates to think about the GP role in the sphere of primary health care. In between the plenary session and participating in the panel discussion, Des was interviewed for ABC Radio National Life Matters program, talking about how he sees the doctor of the future. Click here to listen to this interview. Des has kindly made his conference presentation available: http://www.rwav.com.au/awards/conf_friday.aspx.

We invite you to visit the website regularly as the presentations will be available for viewing in the coming weeks pending individual presenters’ approval.

Over 200 Hospital Medical Officers, interns, prevocational doctors and medical students recently discovered how a career in general practice is exciting, flexible and challenging.

As usual, RWAV was on hand to answer questions from those interested in pursuing a career in rural general practice.

Our recruitment team spoke about the variety, flexibility and financial rewards available in general practice and how you can really mark your mark in medicine as a country GP.