RFDS Model of Care
Introducing Hope on the Horizon: The RFDS Model of Care
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (South Eastern Section) has released a new document, Hope on the Horizon: The RFDS Model of Care, providing a clear, accessible explanation of how we deliver critical healthcare to some of the most remote communities in NSW.
While many Australians know the Flying Doctor for our emergency retrievals, this new publication illustrates the full picture: a deeply integrated, community-based rural health service providing vital care across more than 80 communities.
The RFDS is a critical healthcare partner
Right across NSW, communities are facing unprecedented challenges in accessing healthcare. Workforce shortages, thin and failed markets, hospital pressures and rising chronic disease all contribute to significant inequities.
In many of the regions we serve, RFDS is the only provider of primary, emergency and community-based healthcare.
The Model of Care clearly articulates:
- Our integration within the wider health system
We work hand-in-hand with NSW Health, Local Health Districts, Primary Health Networks, local councils and community partners. Our clinicians frequently support overstretched rural hospitals and emergency departments, and our emergency doctors are cross-credentialled to work within public hospitals where no other doctors are available.
- The continuum of care we provide
From 24/7 emergency retrievals to GP clinics, mental health and wellbeing programs, dental services, home visits, telehealth, health promotion and more – this is a model designed for communities who otherwise go without.
- Our unique role in thin and failed markets
Many remote communities simply cannot sustain traditional healthcare models. The Flying Doctor steps in where others have exited, ensuring continuity of care and preventing avoidable hospitalisations.
- Our scale, capability and impact
With more than 390 staff, a regionally based workforce, dedicated aviation infrastructure and the ability to mobilise quickly in fires, floods, pandemics and crises, the RFDS is a critical extension of the NSW health system.
- The importance of early intervention
Preventing illness is one of the most effective ways to reduce hospital pressure and improve outcomes. Our community embedded model supports early detection, timely care and better long-term health. - The partnership between philanthropy and government
Our ability to deliver care in remote communities relies on a carefully balanced mix of government contracting and philanthropic funding. Donor support enables innovative programs, community wellbeing initiatives and essential healthcare that would otherwise not exist.
Sustainable quality healthcare matters more now than ever
As governments, policymakers and health leaders look for solutions to rural health access and system reform, the RFDS model offers a proven, workable blueprint.
For nearly 100 years, we have delivered high-quality, cost-effective care across vast distances – and the lessons from our work have never been more relevant.
We invite you to discover how the Flying Doctor delivers lifesaving healthcare every day across the furthest reaches of NSW.
Hope on the Horizon
Providing lifesaving community-based healthcare across rural and remote NSW, where others can’t.
RFDS Model of Care
Delivering the finest care to the furthest corner.
