Under-pressure health clinic staff combating a diphtheria outbreak in remote communities are getting welcome aid from fly-in nurses and doctors under a federal funding package.
One of Australia's worst diphtheria outbreaks has highlighted a shortfall in health workers in remote communities, with the spread of the disease providing a wake-up call for remote health coverage.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has announced $7.2 million to contain the outbreak, stressing the importance of getting vaccinated.
The peak nursing body welcomed the funding as a good first step, but warned difficulties filling nursing and GP roles in remote and regional areas undermined the ability to meet vaccination targets.
"Now, more than ever, we need strong, secure plans to make sure every part of Australia has proper health coverage," Australian College of Nursing acting chief executive officer Zach Byfield said.
