Valuing Place in Rural Health Education and Research: The Contribution of University Departments of Rural Health

This commentary argues that University Departments of Rural Health (UDRHs) are integral to shaping distinct, contextually grounded value for rural communities and healthcare systems through their programs of place-based education and research.

For over two decades, the Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) Program has addressed rural healthcare inequities through a place-based approach to health education and research. UDRHs, funded under the RHMT Program, deliver academic activities for nursing, midwifery and allied health students and clinicians, including placements, promoting rural health careers and conducting research relevant to their regions.

This commentary draws on recent evidence of the value of place-based training and research for rural Australia. Place-based education is where the integration of concepts such as connection to and engagement with place supports the preparation of health professions students for the complexity of rural healthcare. Place-based research contributes contextually situated evidence that informs the ongoing development of healthcare education and service delivery. Together, these concepts can be understood as shaping the conditions for high quality, rurally relevant program delivery.

The RHMT Program remains a cornerstone of rural health workforce policy. Its renewal is likely to reinforce the value of contemporary educational, clinical, and research practices for the benefit of people living in rural Australia. Extending the role of UDRHs to target retention strategies has the potential to increase connection and responsiveness to the healthcare needs of rural communities.