Description and Evaluation of an Up-Skilling Workshop for Rural and Remote Mental Health Practitioners in South Australia

Abstract

The workshop was well received and increased participants' knowledge about the management of acute psychiatric presentations. Qualitative data indicate that the pharmacological management and neurobiology of psychiatric illness was interesting but difficult for some participants, and further training in these areas may be appropriate in future workshops. Inclusion of all professional stakeholders in future training is recommended, including students, to promote interest in working in rural and remote health. Participants considered networking with colleagues as an important benefit of the workshop. Targeted training in psychiatry may be needed for overseas-trained doctors. Further, rigorous research is needed to evaluate the long-term benefits of up-skilling workshops, and to inform funding bodies as to where resources might be most effectively channelled.

Effects of a Randomized Controlled Recurrent Fall Prevention Program on Risk Factors for Falls in Frail Elderly Living at Home in Rural Communities

“…The main reason for this substantial demographic change are higher life expectances and declining birth rates [ 2 ]. This expected increase in the proportion of older adults is important from a public health perspective, as aging is generally associated with a progressive decline in physical and psychological health, increased risks of disability, dependency, and in the number of comorbidities [ 3 – 5 ]. This decrease in health status is primarily responsible for one of the most common and serious public health problems – falls.…”

Critical Factors for Training in Rural Psychology

“…Still, Coyle (1999) points out that even though there is less opportunity for consultation and continuing education, it still should be a regular part of the practice of psychology. Chur-Hansen, Todd, and Koopowitz (2004) argue that resources need be routed to rural practice in order to recruit and retain psychologists in those areas and to support those who are already working extremely hard under tying conditions. As such, the limited opportunities for professional development and consultation and a lack of education as to how to enhance professional development and consultation opportunities in rural settings may contribute to psychologists in training hesitancy to work in rural communities.…”

“…When it is not possible to "home grow" psychologists for work in rural settings, programs need to actively seek students who have an interest in working in rural practice and actively encourage other students to learn about and work in rural settings (Kropf, 2003;Chur-Hansen, Todd, & Koopowitz, 2004 ). Some training programs and clinics already actively recruit students with values consistent with those of rural areas to alleviate some of these feelings or possible fears and make long term service more promising (Schank & Skovholt, 2006).…”

“…One participant noted "these are important for all professionals, and people need to make their own choices about what they need and what will help them." Still, many studies (Chur-Hansen, Todd, & Koopowitz, 2004;Coyle, 1999) more specific to rural areas, note the difficulty in gaining supervision and consultation opportunities due to lack of access, lack of others with whom to consult, or lack of time.…”

“…Professional Development/Continuing Education, Burnout, Isolation, and Self-care The importance of professional development, continuing education, and self-care in response to the risk of burnout and the effects of isolation in rural settings has also been well documented (Barbopoulos & Clark, 2003;Berman, 1994;Chur-Hansen, Todd, & Koopowitz, 2004;Coyle, 1999;Helbok, Marinelli, & Walls, 2006;Schank, 1998;Merwin, Goldsmith, & Mandersheid, 1995;Oetinger, 2007;Schank & Skovholt, 2006;Weigel & Baker, 2002). Panelists, like the findings of past research (Kee, Johnson, & Hunt, 2002) agreed that identifying personal stressors and seeking support was of great importance.…”