A Charles Sturt University researcher and an honours student will present their latest research findings on healthcare in regional, rural, and remote NSW at an online symposium on Wednesday 10 November.

The symposium is the second in a series of symposia being held from October to December by the Western NSW Health Research Network Inc (WNSWHRN), the peak body for health research that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people living, working, and studying in western and far western NSW, of which Charles Sturt is a member.

The series brings together healthcare leaders in regional, rural, and remote health from the government, university, community, and private sector to share experiences and research to improve the delivery of healthcare through overcoming challenges associated with geographic remoteness and cultural differences between communities.

Associate Professor of Nursing Rachel Rossiter in the Charles Sturt School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences said the symposia is a wonderful opportunity to hear the latest research from leaders in rural and regional healthcare from a range of organisations and universities.

“Despite all the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented, this forum is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of rural researchers,” Professor Rossiter said.

“For the second year in a row, scheduling a face-to-face symposium has not been possible.  Nevertheless, WHRN has found a way to provide an opportunity for researchers to present their research virtually.”

Professor Rossiter’s presentation focuses on a pilot intervention underway in eleven sites designed to support people living with Parkinson’s disease in rural and regional communities.

This pilot is a collaborative project led by the Western NSW Primary Health Network’s Alison Stoker and Michele Pitt, with assistance from Professor Rossiter.

“Along with my colleagues, I value being able to present the work that we are undertaking to support people living with Parkinson’s disease in this region,” Professor Rossiter said. 

Charles Sturt Bachelor of Paramedicine (Honours) student Ms Alannah Stoneley is looking forward to presenting her research on individual decision making and experiences with emergency healthcare in rural and remote NSW, with a focus on patients presenting with moderate to severe asthma.

“My research gives the patients a voice to get to the heart of the challenges and barriers faced in rural and remote NSW when it comes to accessing emergency healthcare,” Ms Stoneley said.

“The data can help determine where paramedic access needs to be improved as well as which areas need more health education on accessing emergency health care.”

Ms Stoneley’s supervisory team for her Honours program are Ms Clare Sutton, Senior Lecturer (Paramedicine) and Associate Professor in Nursing Judith Anderson in the Charles Sturt School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences.

The full program for the Wednesday 10 November symposium can be accessed here.

The remaining WHRN 2021 Research Symposia are scheduled on the following dates: 

• Wednesday 10 November from 12pm to 2pm
• Thursday 25 November from 12pm to 2pm

The final symposium from 12pm to 2pm on Tuesday 7 December incorporates a summation of the symposia and awards will be presented to outstanding research projects.

To participate in these free symposia, register through this link.

ENDS