A new study led by student researcher Jayden Wells, undertaken as part of his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Sydney, has uncovered something powerful: when environmental health and primary healthcare work together, Indigenous communities benefit in big ways.
Jayden completed this research while on placement with UCRH, supported UCRH researchers Associate Professor Veronica Matthews and Dr Amal Chakraborty. Their review looked at programs from around the world that combine caring for Country with caring for people, and the results were clear. Better housing, cleaner water, and Indigenous-led land management all helped improve physical and mental health.
One standout finding? Programs that are community-led, place-based, and guided by Indigenous leadership are the ones that really work. They don’t just tick boxes, they make a real difference.
Despite the success stories, there’s still a gap. Not enough programs bring together environmental and healthcare services in a way that lasts. The team says it’s time for more joined-up thinking, and more support for initiatives that put Country and community at the heart of health.
This research adds to UCRH’s growing body of work focused on health equity and Indigenous wellbeing. We’re proud to support emerging researchers like Jayden who are helping shape a healthier future for rural and remote communities.
