Rural Chronic Ill Health

Research Overview

This programme of work investigates a range of chronic health issues impacting rural Victorians, with the overarching aim of identifying ways to reduce the burden of chronic ill health on rural communities. Many chronic diseases are more prevalent in rural areas than metropolitan areas, due in part to increased rates of risk factors, poor health behaviours and increased population age.   In addition, access to healthcare for chronic disease management, particularly specialist care, can be restricted in rural areas compared with metropolitan areas.  

Some of the projects being undertaken by this research group investigate differences in the prevalence and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, chronic kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease between rural and metropolitan Victoria.   Other projects explore the 'Patient Journey' experienced by a person as they incorporate a diagnosis of a chronic condition into their lives.   Another project focusses on access to a range of health services in rural Victoria, which may be restricted by a range of factors including geographical distance, cost, waiting time or degree of 'fit' between the service and the consumer.

Staff

Dr. Kristen Glenister, Research Fellow

Dr. Daniel Terry, Research Fellow

Prof. Julian Wright

Prof. Lisa Bourke

Dr. Christina Malatzky, Research Fellow

A/Prof. David Pierce

Dr. Andrew Hamilton

Collaborators

St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne

Victorian Data Linkage

Goulburn Valley Health

Northeast Health Wangaratta

Funding

This research has been supported by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing through the University Department of Health (UDRH) and Rural Clinical Training and Support (RCTS) programs.