I am Lucinda, but call me Lucy.

I’m one of Healthcare Australia’s lovely Rural and Remote Consultants based out of Perth, Western Australia. I love chatting and interacting with my Nurses, and find there is nothing better than that feel-good feeling when they have secured a contract I know they are truly excited about.

Let me ask you a question. Have you considered goingon a Rural and Remote nursing adventure?

If the answer is ‘Yes’, but at the moment it’s a pipedream, this article I have written is specifically for you.

I have countless conversations with new applicants where they are bogged down by the ‘unknowns’ of R&R nursing. Whether they have preconceived ideas or natural hesitations about an environment change, it generally happens to creep up into the conversation.

What if I told you that most of the ‘what if’s’ you may have in the back of your mind are most definitely ‘no chance at all’s’!

Relax, grab a cup of tea and get ready to put your mind at ease as I bust some of the most common myths surrounding Rural and Remote nursing.

Myth #1 You will be working alone

Far from it! HCA does offer placements for Remote Area Nurses (RANs) in clinics staffed by 2-3 Nurses at a time, but the majority of our placements are in rural multipurpose facilities. Some of these facilities have up to 130 beds and service over 50 000 patients a year.

Myth #2 You have to work in all areas of the hospital

Providing the highest quality of patient care is our priority and you will never be expected to practice outside of your skillset. While there are multi-skilled positions and placements where you will be required to work in a number of multiple areas in the facility, this is all clearly outlined at the time of your application and will be formally written into your contract.

Contracts are divided into clinical specialty areas, so you won’t find yourself working outside of your scope.

Myth #3 There is nothing to do after your shift

There’s no time to be bored in a country as beautiful as ours!

Australia is renowned for its stunning and diverse natural environments. With our Rural and Remote placements, you get the opportunity to explore these spectacular landscapes and see the unique wildlife.

Sometimes you might need to be just a little bit adventurous, making your own fun and say a big HELLO to other Nurses (Including HCA’s Team Purple!) on site.

Make sure you take a camera! Take snap shots of your location, and where possible, drive the roads less travelled and get yourself amongst the local knowledge.

Myth #4 You have to organize your own accommodation

Accommodation is almost always provided onsite, or within close walking distance to the hospital. You will generally find this is free or at a small and subsidised weekly fee. Rest assured, all the finer details are disclosed within your contact, prior to commencement.

On occasion, accommodation for couples may be provided, but make sure that your let your consultants know at the time of your application.

Do you have a furry friend? Occasionally sites will allow them to live with you on placement, but again, chat with your consultant about this upon your application.

Myth #5 You have to be away for a long period of time

It’s up to you, how long you are happy to be away for. Contract lengths range from 1 week up to 6 months ‚ the choice is yours! On average contracts are around the 6-week mark, but depending on your specialty this can vary.

If you are a RAN some placements are as short as 2 weeks and Emergency Nurses can even get contracts for a couple of nights in WA.

With over 230 contracts available nationally at any given time, there has never been a better time to take a leap of faith and try Rural and Remote nursing with Healthcare Australia.

Travel FREE in May with HCA

We are offering free travel this May for all +4 week Rural and Remote placements. Perhaps you’re looking for a long-term contract or seeking a working holiday? Secure your contract now and start your next adventure.

Call us on 1300 885 728 or email us on [email protected]