HCF has announced a new national partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) to improve healthcare access and outcomes for rural and remote Australians.
HCF CEO Sheena Jack said the partnership represents the union of two trusted Australian health organisations and firmly aligns with the fund’s vision to improve access to affordable, quality healthcare for our members and all Australians.
“As one of this nation’s original for-purpose organisations, we’re focused on making decisions which have a positive health impact on our members, communities and the environment. We’re proud to be partnering with the RFDS to help address the clear disparity in healthcare outcomes for families and communities living in the bush,” said Ms Jack.
“Whether that’s through health promotion and education programs to flexible treatment and support to help manage the growing burden of chronic disease, we want to be a trusted health partner for all Australians, ensuring access to quality cover and care when they need it most.”
“We know preventive healthcare is of critical importance, particularly among rural and regional communities and together we’re committed to making an impact on the ground through access to programs targeting primary health, oral health, mental health, Aboriginal health and women’s health.
RFDS Federation executive director Frank Quinlan said HCF’s contribution will help fund life-saving medical technologies and the delivery of essential primary healthcare to every corner of Australia.
“The recent RFDS Best For The Bush report showed that men who live in remote Australia are on average expected to live almost 14 years less than their city counterparts. For a rural woman, the life expectancy difference is 19 years,” said Mr Quinlan.
“We know access to comprehensive care at every age and stage is key to managing chronic disease, preventing hospitalisation and supporting happier, healthier, longer lives. Across Australia, the RFDS assists someone every two minutes. “The RFDS is honoured to partner with HCF in a shared commitment to our communities. HCF’s support will go a long way to helping RFDS as we remove barriers to whole-of-life healthcare for remote and rural Australians.”
HCF said its $3 million commitment over three years will help fund the upkeep of aircraft and lifesaving technologies, ensuring the delivery of crucial primary healthcare and mental health services to every corner of Australia.