Increasing inclusion in rural, generalist health services

Greater Shepparton region represents one of the most culturally and socially diverse areas of regional Victoria with a large population of First Nations people and over 50 nationalities speaking more than 40 languages. Therefore, providing health care that is inclusive is particularly important. Other studies have found that people from diverse groups may not feel safe, confident and included when seeking health care. Evidence is clear that when health services are not culturally appropriate, inclusive and welcoming, people needing health care are less likely to use them. This report presents research that explored Shepparton residents’ perspectives of access to and use of health services, with particular attention to the perspectives of residents from socially and culturally diverse backgrounds. It is the intention of this report to prioritise the voices of Shepparton residents from socially and culturally diverse backgrounds to inform how healthcare can be delivered inclusively and tailored to local needs.