TO acknowledge International Men’s Health Week, Australia’s peak organisation for rural, remote and First Nations healthcare is backing a nationwide campaign aimed at encouraging men to book a checkup with their GP.
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, or ACRRM, is throwing its support behind Healthy Male, and the Centre for Male Health’s See Your GP initiative, which is seeking to men to prioritise their health and wellbeing.
With the organisation’s focus on rural and remote communities, ACRRM president Dr Rod Martin said the campaign’s message, “Before you take everyone else’s advice, talk to your doctor” is particularly resonant for men within ACRRM’s demographic.
“Too often, rural men put off seeing a doctor, whether it’s due to distance, busy workloads, or the old attitude of ‘she’ll be right’,” he said.
“But the truth is, early checks and conversations with your doctor can save your life, and your rural generalist (RG) doctor is there to help you, not judge you.”
Dr Martin said according to mortality statistics, it’s essential for men living in remote regions to be up to date with their healthcare needs.
“Recent data shows men living in very remote areas die up to 13 years earlier than those in cities, and rates of potentially avoidable deaths are two and a half times higher,” he said.
“Many of these deaths are entirely preventable. When you live outside the urban footprint, you can’t afford to delay your healthcare.
“Having a regular check-in with your RG is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family.
“RGs live and work in rural and remote communities, and they have knowledge and understanding of the unique mental and physical health risks men face.”
International Men’s Health Week began on Monday and ends Sunday.
