John Cobb, Federal Member for Calare, has announced a welcome change to the district of workforce shortage (DWS) system, which now sees Canowindra and Eugowra listed as DWS locations.
A district of workforce shortage is a geographical area in which the population has less access to medical services when compared to the national average. Mr Cobb stated; “It’s fantastic news…by granting Canowindra DWS status, we make it easier to recruit GPs and can undertake workforce planning to ensure our communities’ continued access to health services.”
Now Canowindra is considered DWS it will be open to doctors who would otherwise be restricted in their ability to provide Medicare subsidised services. Dr Ramana Kaipu, the local practitioner for Canowindra, said: “It’s a really good option for us, it gives everyone a decent opportunity to work. Before this the choices were restricted but with DWS more overseas doctors will be able to come and work in rural towns. We have had difficulty attracting doctors in the past so this should entice them more, we’re very pleased.”