Workplace violence and aggression against rural GPs is a frequent problem. Adequate funding and safe facilities for after-hours care and training for GPs in managing dangerous situations should be provided.

Workplace violence and aggression against rural GPs is a frequent problem. Adequate funding and safe facilities for after-hours care and training for GPs in managing dangerous situations should be provided.

More than three‐quarters of Australia is classified as geographically remote. Remote areas are characterised by geographic isolation, cultural diversity, socioeconomic inequality, resource inequity, Indigenous health inequality, and a full range of extreme climatic conditions. Although several descriptive definitions have been developed for “remote health” and “remote practice”, definitions of “remote medical practice” or “remote medicine” have not been previously published. In 2007, a working group of doctors and academics with experience in remote medicine was formed to develop the first advanced specialised remote medicine curriculum for remote doctors undertaking training with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine. The first step was to define remote medical practice. Remote medical practice has eight key features: employment rather than private practice, isolation, use of telehealth, increased clinical acumen, extended practice, cross‐cultural setting, multidisciplinary practice, and an emphasis on public health and personal security. From these eight features, we developed the first working definition of remote medical practice in the Australian context. Our definition will assist policymakers, medical colleges, standard setters, and educators to develop programs and resources for the future remote medical workforce.

This study shows that that levels of apprehension about violence affect GPs' willingness to provide after hours services. Future provision of general practice after hours services and home visits in rural areas requires the availability of a safe working environment to reduce GPs' apprehension about workplace violence.

This study shows that that levels of apprehension about violence affect GPs' willingness to provide after hours services. Future provision of general practice after hours services and home visits in rural areas requires the availability of a safe working environment to reduce GPs' apprehension about workplace violence.