Working in health in rural Tasmania

Working in health in rural in Tasmania

WHEN people imagine rural areas they think farms, furry animals, cute cottages, and a laidback lifestyle.

While these can be true, some of us fail to acknowledge the dedicated people who work and care for others in our rural communities. HACSU members in these workplaces are working harder than ever to ensure the public are being cared for. Often they have to do this with limited equipment and with strained resources. Large hospitals have round the clock imaging, intensive care units and access to specialists. Rural hospitals don’t have these things so, more than their urban counterparts, our members need to rely on their clinical skills to manage patients. Consequently, they often have a higher level of clinical responsibility. Support workers are the jack and jills of all trades, often managing multiple jobs and skills in any given week. No hospital would be able to function without cleaners, maintenance, kitchen, admin and so many other staff members. We couldn't be any prouder of each and every one one of our rural members. They do amazing work within our communities each and every day. HACSU is committed to ensuring that all rural workers have a safe workplace and that there are adequate staffing levels. If you work in a rural area and need our help, don't hesitate to contact HACSUassist on 1300 880 032.

Cook and delegate Anthony Zwart and multiskilled domestic Jarrod Colgrave both work at Beaconsfield District Health Service