Developing solutions to the provision of primary care services in rural and remote Queensland

The historical and contemporary factors contributing to the rural medical workforce shortage in Queensland are summarised, and its impact on community well being and service provision discussed in this paper. A planning matrix was developed to identify the core components to be addressed in further modelling to support sustainable rural and remote medical practice. The paper describes two case studies, in which new models of service delivery are being developed. The case studies demonstrate the importance of collaboration and partnerships between communities, State and Commonwealth funded service providers, and support agencies. The paper lists recommendations to support sustainable health service delivery in rural and remote Queensland.