University of Tasmania, Australia

The University Department of Rural Health (UDRH) was established in 1997 under the Regional Health Strategy of the Australian Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA). We aim to improve access for rural and remote communities to appropriate health services by encouraging students to pursue a career in rural practice and supporting health care professionals working in these areas. The UDRH Tasmania is one of eleven University Departments of Rural Health established around Australia, and is linked to these other Departments through its membership of the Australian Rural Health Education Network (ARHEN).

The UDRH is a research-focused academic unit that is uniquely positioned within an island state. We promote rural health through teaching and supporting the clinical placement of undergraduate students by maintaining a network of learning and accommodation sites across rural and remote communities in Tasmania. The Department delivers a contemporary continuing education program to working health professionals and, through flexible teaching arrangements, offers a range of graduate programs in e-health to students in Tasmania and elsewhere. We welcome graduate research students and create a supportive, learner-friendly environment in which they can undertake their studies. By drawing on a wide range of skill sets and methodological expertise, staff engage in a vigorous and diverse program of high quality rural health research that position the department as locally relevant, nationally competitive and internationally recognised. Current areas of research include: ageing well; climate change and health; health mapping; food security; interprofessional learning, education and practice.