Dr Christine Read
The presentation describes the inception and first six months of a new rural service for FPA Health, a leader in reproductive and sexual health in the areas of clinical practice, health promotion, information, education and research. It includes a description of a needs analysis undertaken to inform services and plan for the future. The aim of the presentation is to show how FPA Health is working to provide a service targeted to the needs of its clients, which includes the community, other health care providers and key stakeholders. An important additional plus is the broadening of the knowledge base with regard to rural health for FPA Health. The movement away from a metropolitan based organisation to a state based service with a more rural focus has involved staff at all levels. The process of engaging existing staff in the change of strategic direction is a vital factor in the challenge of setting up a service de novo. Major results are that the clinical service has commenced, a needs assessment report written and disseminated and the networks and partnerships made as a result of this are starting to bear fruit. Staff at existing centres have volunteered to spend time at Dubbo. A men's health project has commenced and a business plan developed. In conclusion, an urban to rural move will work successfully if you involve people on the ground, the staff in your own organisation and by engaging community members and service providers in consultation.