Study protocol: Evaluating the impact of a rural Australian primary health care service on rural health
2011

Evaluating a Rural Health Care Service in Australia

Sample size: 3000 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Rachel Tham, John S. Humphreys, Leigh Kinsman, Penny Buykx, Adel Asaid, Kathy Tuohey

Primary Institution: Monash University School of Rural Health

Hypothesis

How does a rural primary health care service impact health outcomes and community viability?

Conclusion

The evaluation aims to provide significant insights into the sustainability and effectiveness of rural health services.

Supporting Evidence

  • Rural communities in Australia face significant health service disadvantages compared to urban areas.
  • Primary health care is essential for achieving better health outcomes in resource-limited settings.
  • The evaluation framework is based on established quality of care paradigms.

Takeaway

This study looks at how a health service in a small town helps people stay healthy and happy. It wants to find out what works best for the community.

Methodology

The study will use a longitudinal evaluation framework over six years, collecting data through audits, surveys, interviews, and focus groups.

Limitations

The study may face challenges in developing appropriate indicators due to the complexity of health service delivery.

Participant Demographics

The health service serves nearly 3,000 patients from a rural area with a population of 693.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-11-52

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