Transforming Healthcare Delivery with Connecting the Docs
Welcome to Connecting the Docs, your gateway to revolutionising healthcare in the Loddon Mallee Region of Victoria. Designed with a mission to bridge critical workforce gaps, this innovative program is re-imagining how healthcare professionals are recruited, supported, and retained, with a sharp focus on rural and regional Australia. By combining visionary strategies with practical solutions, we’re creating sustainable healthcare systems where both practitioners and communities thrive.
Our Mission: Bridging Gaps and Building Futures
At its heart, Connecting the Docs addresses Australia’s urgent healthcare workforce challenges by aligning with the key recommendations from the 2023 Overseas Health Practitioner Regulatory Settings Review. This program delivers actionable solutions that tackle regulatory complexities, workforce maldistribution, and practitioner retention issues, especially in underserved regions.
The purpose of the program is to provide transitions, clear pathways and case management support for doctors entering the region. We aim to provide diversity and flexibility to your career – with the option of multi-site and multi-disciplinary practice in a streamlined process – in conjunction with additional guidance to connect you with the appropriate organisations and support throughout your journey.
Why Connecting the Docs Stands Out
- Tailored Pathways for Every Practitioner We understand that every health professional’s journey is unique. Whether you’re a domestic junior, seasoned specialist, career hospitalist, or international practitioner, we provide customized pathways to help you succeed. By removing barriers like complex registration processes, we ensure your transition is seamless, efficient, and supportive.
- Comprehensive Support for Professionals and Families From relocation assistance to cultural orientation and community integration, we prioritise your well-being and professional success. Our holistic support services guarantee that both you and your family feel at home, creating the stability needed for long-term retention.
- Building Stronger Communities Workforce retention isn’t just about jobs—it’s about building lasting connections. We work closely with local communities to foster cultural safety, meaningful engagement, and robust support networks, ensuring you’re part of a thriving ecosystem.
- Collaboration That Drives Excellence Through strategic partnerships with hospitals, community health services, and primary care providers, we promote multidisciplinary care models that are essential for addressing complex health challenges.
- Revitalizing Regional Healthcare By embedding healthcare professionals in rural and regional areas, we not only enhance service delivery but also contribute to economic revitalisation and equity in healthcare access.
Turning Vision into Action
Connecting the Docs transforms recommendations from the Overseas Health Practitioner Regulatory Settings Review into real-world solutions by:
- Streamlining Pathways: Simplifying recruitment and registration processes to minimise delays.
- Prioritising Cultural Competence: Equipping practitioners with the tools to thrive in Australia’s unique healthcare landscape.
- Enhancing Retention: Providing the support needed to ensure professionals feel valued and integrated.
- Focusing on Under-served Regions: Addressing geographic disparities to ensure healthcare equity.
A Blueprint for the Future
Connecting the Docs is more than just a program—it’s a pioneering model that demonstrates how localised initiatives can address national challenges. By placing practitioners at the heart of rural communities and aligning with forward-thinking policies, we are shaping a healthier, more equitable future for all.
Join us on this transformative journey as we redefine what’s possible in healthcare recruitment, retention, and community-building. Together, we’re not just connecting the docs—we’re connecting lives.
Steering Committee
Gemma Bilardi
Project Lead | Echuca Regional Health
Dr Annemarie Newth
Executive Director of Medical Services & Chief Medical Officer | Echuca Regional Health
Kellie Byron-Gray
Chief Executive Officer | Kerang District Health |
Trevor Adem
Chief Executive Officer | East Wimmera Healthcare
Marie Griffiths
Executive Director Services and Delivery | Mallee District Aboriginal Service
Dr Nabrees Sinnalebbe
Deputy Director of Medical Services | Mildura Base Public Hospital
Penny Wilkinson
Chief Executive Officer | Northern District Community Health
