University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health

Director's Welcome

Welcome to the University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health (UoNDRH).

The UoNDRH encompasses a number of rurally based programs including the University Department of Rural Health (UDRH) and Rural Clinical Training and Support (RCTS) programs. The UDRH program, established in 2002, focuses on facilitating student placements and learning, enhancing the health of local communities through community projects and conducting research into rural health issues.  With facilities in Tamworth, Taree, Armidale and Moree we support students in Medicine, Nursing, Nutrition and Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Medical Radiation Science, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy and Speech Pathology.

In July 2006, the Rural Clinical School (RCS) program commenced in Tamworth and Taree.  This program continued to grow rapidly through 2006 to 2011.  In July 2012, the new RCTS program commenced.  It extends and affirms the importance of quality undergraduate experience for medical students with opportunity to support the rural health workforce and engage with rural communities.  This program provides full year placements for students of the Joint Medical Program (JMP) of the University of Newcastle and University of New England.  In partnership with Hunter New England Health Local Health District, JMP students can take clinical placements in either Year 4 or Year 5 at hospitals based in Tamworth, Taree and Armidale.

The UDRH and RCTS take great pride in the support provided to students in the frontline of the health care system.  We are leaders in delivering allied health and medical placements in rural areas.  Our aim is to provide not only high quality clinical training but also an enjoyable life experience, in magnificent rural centres, so as to expose our students to the career and lifestyle opportunities available outside of the metropolitan areas.

Our community engagement projects seek not only to provide health education and services to our local community, but also to provide aspiration to disadvantaged communities and to provide our students with first hand exposure to community issues.

Our growing research expertise is reflected in our Research Strategic Directions focussing on rural workforce, education, indigenous health and clinical evidence.

With the support of a diverse and energetic, academic and clinical network, the UoNDRH is well placed to provide a high quality student teaching and learning experiences, excellence in research output, and partnerships aimed at building a strong and healthy community.

Professor Nicky Hudson
Director
University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health

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