Knowledge, skills and attitudes of rural and remote psychologists

To develop a list of knowledge, skills and attitudes (KSAs, components of competencies) considered required or desirable by rural and remote psychologists for rural and remote psychology practice.

Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews. Data were analysed thematically.

Rural and remote regions of South Australia.

Nine registered psychologists living and working in rural and remote South Australia (as defined by ARIA++ classification categories excluding Highly Accessible communities). All participants were women.

Seven competencies were identified, relating to two broad themes: 'Professional Isolation' (competencies arising from being the sole psychologist or one of few in the community); and 'rural life' (competencies relating to the need to manage features of the rural context). The seven competencies (managing professional development, supervision, the lack of other services, dual relationships, visibility, confidentiality and appreciation of the rural context) encompassed a number of corresponding and overlapping KSAs. Personality characteristics, including autonomy, resilience and confidence were also identified as important for working in rural areas.

Competencies and KSAs identified were consistent with issues identified in previous research for rural and remote psychologists and other health professionals. The present study contributes by providing a comprehensive checklist of KSAs for rural practice identified by rural psychologists. With further development, the competencies outlined could be used in conjunction with rural placements as part of competency-based training.