The New Zealand Institute of Rural Health is committed to fostering undergraduate health professionals' interest in a career in rural health. To that end, we advocate for a stronger rural health emphasis in clinical schools - we're working closely with the Faculty of General Practice at The University of Auckland and we're establishing a strong relationship with the Waikato Clinical School, based at the Waikato Hospital in Hamilton.

The New Zealand Institute of Rural Health is also committed to assisting rural health professionals to access continuing education resources. One of the largest obstacles to continuing education for rural health professionals is obtaining locum relief. The New Zealand Institute of Rural Health supports and participates in schemes to improve the supply of locum general practitioners and is investigating options to assist rural nurses obtaining locum relief. 

There is also a need for postgraduate and continuing education for rural health professionals. In a large organisation, career development and continuing education are relatively easy for the health professional to obtain. In rural health, the opportunities are much harder to find and to access. Education curricula needs to be tailored to suit the needs of rural health professionals and providing in a variety of delivery modes. 

The New Zealand Institute of Rural Health is involved in the development and supply of distance education for rural health professionals through the services of the Professional Development Facilitator. The Associate Professor of Rural Health is currently investigating distance education options. His findings will form the basis of future direction for the New Zealand Institute of Rural Health's programmes and strategies.


National Certificate in Community Support Services (Foundation Skills) Level 2

Te Kuiti, Taumarunui, Thames and Te Awamutu; 9am – 3pm (school holiday break included) 16 August – 26 November 2010. Approx $1,638 Study Link loans available.

It is designed for rural areas, and a great opportunity for people wanting to make a difference in our rural areas. Please click here for further information.

Last Updated 19 July 2010