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Retention of general practitioners in remote areas of Canada and Australia: A meta-aggregation of qualitative research

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-21, 02:28 authored by Wieland, L, Jennifer AytonJennifer Ayton, Abernethy, G

Objective: Our aim was to systematically review qualitative evidence regarding the experiences and perceptions of General Practitioners and the factors influencing retention in remote areas of Canada and Australia. The objectives were to identify gaps and inform policy to improve retention of remote doctors, which should in turn reduce health inequalities for remote communities.

Design: Meta-aggregation of qualitative studies of General Practitioners and general practice registrars who had worked in a remote area of Australia or Canada for a minimum of 1 year and/or were intending to stay remote long term in their current placement.

Results: Six synthesised findings were identified: peer and professional support, organisational support, uniqueness of remote lifestyle and work, burnout and time off, personal family issues and cultural and gender issues.

Conclusions: Long-term retention of doctors in remote areas of Australia and Canada is influenced by a range of negative and positive perceptions, and experiences with key factors being professional, organisational and personal. All 6 synthesised findings span a spectrum of policy domains and service responsibilities, and therefore, a central coordinating body could be well placed to implement a multifactorial retention strategy.

History

Publication title

Australian Journal of Rural Health

Volume

29

Issue

5

Pagination

656-669

ISSN

1038-5282

Department/School

Tasmanian School of Medicine

Publisher

Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Asia

Place of publication

Australia

Rights statement

Copyright 2021 National Rural Health Alliance Ltd.

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Public health (excl. specific population health) not elsewhere classified; Rural and remote area health; Expanding knowledge in the health sciences

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