Table 1 Examples of integrated components underpinning a remote health strategy

Funding

Primary Health Care Access Program (PHCAP) which was a flexible mixed mode pooled funding model implemented via a grant payment plus access to Medicare Benefits Schedule and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme payments [30]

Workforce education, training and supports

Mental health and social supports such as the 24/7 telephone counselling support line available through the Bush Support Line; [35] and career development opportunities provided, including in management.

Different workforce scope-of-practice

Services for Australian Rural & Remote Allied Health’s (SARRAH’s) ‘Building the rural and remote Allied Health Assistant workforce’ (BRAHAW) initiative which enables remote health organisations to develop their Allied Health Assistant workforce [36]

Recognised First Nations leadership roles

The Torres Model of Care has a First Nations leadership model and approach which enables trust and support from both the community and the health sector [37]

Context-specific service models

Acknowledging and integrating traditional healing practices alongside Western medicine [38]

Genuine inter-sectoral collaboration and resourcing

Collaborations occurring between health sector and essential services including police and education departments during the COVID-19 pandemic [39]

Appropriate climate-resilient remote infrastructure and reliable Information Technology and telecommunications

Culturally sensitive and climate-friendly housing in remote communities [40]

Strong engagement and partnerships with local communities

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Services governance models which are controlled and delivered by the people they serve [41]