The Arthritis Victoria Rural Access Project is based on these premises. They have been consistently highlighted in recent discussions on rural health issues and also underpin emerging public health policy in Victoria through a 'Key Stakeholders Forum' convened by Professor John Catford, Director of the Public Health and Development Division of the Victorian Department of Human Services. The impact on individuals, carers, the health care system and the community is considerable. In rural areas this impact is exacerbated by the current economic and social environment. Over 25 per cent of the population has, on a long term basis, some form of musculo-skeletal condition, making this disease group the most common long term chronic condition.
Affected people are high users of prescribed pharmaceuticals and alternative therapies.
Yet evidence shows that early intervention can significantly slow the progression to disability. Pain alone impacts physically and emotionally and often leads to depression, impacting on mental health. Arthritis Victoria, in common with other Arthritis Foundations, promotes self-management through information and education, facilitating peer support and access to appropriate physical activity. We try to remove barriers to participation in broader State or national health promotion strategies for people who may feel excluded, largely because of pain. We are also engaged in the continuing education of a range of health professionals, and fund both clinical and social research.