Doctors have welcomed a $27 million Federal Government plan to set up rural co-ordination units across Australia, describing it as a key step in the rollout of the National Rural Generalist Training program.

The units will be tasked with improving links between rural hospitals and primary care networks so doctors on the program can access both the general practice and hospital-based training they need.

RDAA president Dr John Hall described the co-ordinating units as “not a small step, but a giant leap”.

The units will provide guidance and support for doctors navigating complex training requirements, he said.