Improve Your Outlook: Benefits of a Tree Change
Over the past two years, the Australian government has provided incentives to entice medical practitioners away from urban centres. Whilst some of the benefits are financial, a less frenetic lifestyle can bring improved health and social outcomes as well.
Payments For Relocation
In its latest budget, the Australian government announced that it will pay up to $60000 per year to doctors who are willing to relocate to rural areas. Whether you are single or raising a family, this can be a great way to save money without working extra hours. Housing, fresh foods and schooling costs tend to be cheaper in rural areas, allowing further savings. The true benefits of a tree change, however, cannot be measured by a growing bank account.
New Experiences
Perhaps you've never flown in a helicopter or small plane before. As a rural doctor, you may be expected to accompany patients to major hospitals in a medical aircraft. Rather than referring patients to a specialist, you will gain hands-on experience in everything from paediatric to obstetric care. In a rural community, there are many opportunities to receive recognition and respect from patients and peers.
Better Health
Whilst it is your job to care for the health of others, a tree change can prove to be a lifesaver for the health of yourself and your family. Consider the advantages of being able to walk to most places in your community rather than facing a long daily commute. You and your family will be able to eat cheap, fresh food from local markets and enjoy unpolluted country living. Local sporting teams are at the heart of rural communities and you will quickly find yourself being recruited by representatives from the football, cricket and golf clubs. Family members will also be able to explore activities such as horse riding more readily than they could in the city.
Social Calendar
In rural areas, you may find that there are few theme parks or large theatres. However, your social calendar will quickly fill up with rodeos, rural race meetings, sporting matches and amateur theatre performances. Many doctors make a tree change in order to pursue hobbies such as photography, car restoration or fishing.
Tree Change For The Better
If working in the city is giving you the blues, perhaps it is time for you to turn green and make a tree change. Both professionally and personally, life as a rural medical practitioner may just provide the fulfilment you are seeking. Check to see if there is a medical physician vacancy near you.