Government keeps pledge for flying doctor funds

The Federal Government has delivered on its pre-Budget announcement of providing additional funding to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and $83.3 million over five years to achieve stronger regional health outcomes.

The Government had previously indicated there was $327 million committed to the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia across four years, to support continued fly and drive-in medical, nursing and dental services in remote areas, and a new national mental health program.

RFDS chief executive Dr Martin Laverty said the funding was welcome and showed an understanding of country Australia’s health needs.

“All who live, work, and travel in country Australia can do so knowing the RFDS is on stand-by if needed, thanks to support of the Liberal-Nationals Government,” he said.

“RFDS cared for 335,000 Aus-tralians last year in the air, on the ground, or via telehealth — we can now also deliver a new mental health service to under-served country areas in all States and the Northern Territory.”