Simon Wood MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, visited the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Tasmania at the hangar at Launceston Airport last week.
During his visit, Simon spoke with RFDS Tasmania’s Operations Manager, Andrew Adam, about the RFDS’s physical and mental health programs delivered across the state.
On behalf of the RFDS, Andrew expressed deep gratitude for all support and funding received by RFDS Tasmania, stating that it is “gratefully appreciated and faithfully applied.” This funding plays a crucial role in enabling RFDS programs to provide essential health services to Tasmania’s rural and remote communities.
In the 2023-2024 financial year, the RFDS Tasmania adult mental health team delivered 997 consultations across four local government areas, thanks to funding from Primary Health Tasmania. Additionally, the youth mental health program, supported by the Commonwealth Government, conducted 2,951 consultations across 10 local government areas.
Despite these efforts, the Mental Health Council of Tasmania highlights that universal accessibility, particularly in rural and regional areas, remains a significant barrier for Tasmanians seeking mental health support. RFDS Tasmania also identifies the stigma surrounding mental health as a substantial obstacle to care in small, regional towns.
During their conversation, Andrew and Simon discussed potential solutions to these challenges, including the establishment of allied health facilities, or “health hubs,” in these communities. The coordination of service providers in a single location not only offers individuals a level of anonymity when accessing mental health services but also ensures the best use of community resources.
Simon Wood’s visit underscored the importance of ongoing support and innovation in delivering mental health services, particularly in remote and regional areas of Tasmania. RFDS Tasmania continues to play a vital role in providing accessible and effective healthcare to all Tasmanians.
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