‘There is no quick fix for rural New Zealand’s stretched health service’. What is the way forward?

In New Zealand, a significant 19% of the population, amounting to 888,654 individuals, reside in rural areas. These areas are classified under the Geographic Classification for Health (GCH) into two urban (U1 and U2) and three rural (R1, R2, R3) categories. The R3 category, representing the most remote communities, is home to 44,217 people. Within this group, 36% are Māori, 48% are female, and 19% are over the age of 65.

The disparities in health outcomes between rural and urban populations are stark. Māori in the most remote areas (R3) experience a mortality rate 2.5 times higher than their Non-Māori counterparts. Young Māori in these areas are twice as likely to die from preventable causes compared to those in large cities. Additionally, the suicide rate among males aged 15-44 in rural areas is 64% higher than in urban areas, with firearms being a significant factor.

Healthcare access is a critical issue. Rural residents are 37% less likely to be admitted to hospitals compared to urban residents, highlighting significant barriers to healthcare services. If rural hospitalisation rates were on par with urban rates, over 5,000 additional hospital admissions would be required annually. Despite these access issues, outcomes for heart attack patients in rural hospitals are nearly identical to those in urban hospitals.

So, where are we going wrong? The systemic disparities in health outcomes, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access for rural populations, particularly Māori, indicate a significant gap in addressing the unique needs of these communities. The higher mortality and preventable death rates among Māori in remote areas, coupled with increased socioeconomic deprivation and limited healthcare access, highlight the critical areas requiring attention. Fostering healthy, vibrant rural communities is essential for enhancing the overall wellbeing of these regions and ensuring equitable health outcomes across New Zealand.

To change course, a multifaceted approach is necessary: we need to improve healthcare access by enhancing hospital and emergency service availability in rural areas; address socioeconomic deprivation by implementing targeted economic development programmes; invest in rural infrastructure; and promote education and employment.

By taking these steps, we can work towards reducing the disparities between rural and urban populations, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Who's up for the challenge?