Rural Health - Improving Rural Health

Improving Rural Health

In light of the above mentioned discussion, rural health issues have become increasingly interesting, and not to mention, complex. A few key points have arisen from this discussion that may be worth summarizing. First, there have been several attempts at delineating rural from urban. Variations of ‘rural definitions’ have left little hope for international comparisons. Second, the geographical diversity across countries, and within, mean that a generic geographical description of rural is unlikely. Third, rural dwellers are not a homogeneous group, different ‘types’ of people live under this label. Fourth, although health outcomes are generally poorer in rural areas, some discrepancies have left in doubt its direct causation. Finally, the possible determinants of health are numerous and to pin point specific factors that predicts health outcome in rural persons is nearly impossible. There is much more to ‘rural health’ than meets the eye. In studying rural health, one must look beyond geographical location and consider interactions among a multitude of influential factors. As stated by, “there is no one size fits all solution” (p. 160) to rural health. In other words, health issues in one area are not necessarily problematic in another.

Therefore, in an attempt to better understand and improve the health of rural persons, increased attention from academics and decision makers is needed. Continued research would contribute to our understanding of the impact of ‘place’ on health. Many countries have made it a priority to increase funds for rural health research and others have yet to act upon the specific recommendations made about this funding. For instance, several countries have developed research institutes with rural health mandates (i.e. Centre for Rural and Northern Health Research- Canada; Countryside Agency- United Kingdom; Institute of Rural Health- Australia; New Zealand Institute of Rural Health- New Zealand). While research plays a fundamental role in speaking for rural dwellers, it also provides decision makers with evidence based information. With that said, ‘rural proofing’ practices have been implemented to ensure rural needs are not overlooked in policy making. Policy makers at all levels of governance play a critical role in ensuring the health of rural populations. Policies ensuring safe living conditions right through to accessible health care services will result in equal health outcomes across rural and urban locations.