Finding solutions: delivering quality aged care in rural and remote Australia

In 2000, the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care commissioned a survey of regional, rural and remote aged care in over 20 services across Australia in order to identify and document the common features of successful practice in a challenging environment. The authors outline common difficulties associated with service delivery in regional, rural and remote areas. The success factors for aged care services include: strong, visionary local governance; effective business management practices; open communication; significant involvement of consumers and community stakeholders; a client focused service; accessible service; service quality; major emphasis on staff and their development; and effective managers working with strong teams. The authors present five case studies of services that demonstrate these factors.