This article analyses three broad questions: how is ‘remote’ different from ‘rural’; how do these differences affect the provision of health care and health outcomes, positively and negatively; and what is needed to address these issues and systematise solutions in order to deliver parity of health outcomes. It finds the distinguishing characteristics of remote areas...

The burden of oral disease among rural and remote Australians is compelling, and yet, achieving timely access to appropriate oral health care in these areas remains elusive. This brief synthesises evidence regarding the extent of access challenges, and the possible factors impacting on access. It shows that maldistribution of public dental services, long-standing shortage of...