That is the message from Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC), which in recent years has spent substantial funds attracting and retaining GPs.

Liverpool Plains councillor Mary Roberts said doctor shortages had widespread ramifications for the sustainability of rural and regional communities.

“When it comes to attracting new residents to regional areas, one of the most significant factors influencing tree-changers is health and medical services, along with employment, lifestyle, availability of water, education and retail,” she said.

“Although there was some improvement in the situation a few years ago, there is still a shortage in the GP workforce that impacts not only here but the whole of Australia.”

Cr Roberts said whichever party took power after the March election must implement stronger incentive programs to recruit and retain rural doctors.

“Luring young doctors to work and live in country towns remains an ongoing problem for regional NSW,” she said.

“Numerous research has shown that young doctors who identify as being rural and follow rural training pathways are more likely to remain in rural areas.”

Rural Doctors Association of Australia chief executive officer Jenny Johnson said there was a direct correlation between doctor numbers and the health of residents.

“If it’s a hassle to go and see a doctor, then people just aren’t going to go,” she said.

“We know there is a greater burden of chronic disease, such as diabetes and heart disease, in rural areas.

“They’re the sort of diseases that if you get on top of them early and manage them, then health outcomes will improve.”