What are Royal Flying Doctor medical chests? For some in the remote corners of our region, they can be the difference between life and death.

The iconic on-site 'chemist' capability is a lifesaving initiative that has developed over many years and is the first step in the chain of medical incidents and requirements for many isolated areas across Australia.

With over 400 medicine chests spread out across far western NSW (and 2,400 throughout Australia), the lockable steel containers hold around 90 essential items, divided into five specific compartments, from first aid supplies to prescription medicines.

The chest has evolved over many years to cover a number of medical conditions that would be difficult for people living and working in remote areas to treat.

With around one in every eight remote consultations via RFDS doctor using items from the chests, those who have the chests say it gives peace of mind and a sense of relief to have it on hand when the time comes to use it.

Royal Flying Doctor Medicine Chest - Image RFDS.

The chests are strategically placed in locations deemed most beneficial, such as large sheep and cattle stations, remote communities, and outback tourism sites, as well as offshore oil rigs and fishing vessels.

They require approval for use, and in an emergency or extreme illness the owner of the chest can link up with the RFDS doctors, who go on to authorise use of items in the chest.

Virtual event to find out more

Women in Western NSW have been invited to virtual information sessions speaking about this unique aspect of outback life today and Wednesday 12 March, with RFDS SE lead pharmacist Rochelle Olsen.

RFDS SE lead Pharmacist Rochelle Olsen presenter of workshops - Image supplied.

Organisation, Contact Inc, is partnering with RFDS SE to hold workshops to educate rural residents about the medical chests so more lives can be saved and aided in times of need.

“I’m looking forward to connecting with the station owners and isolated residents who have medical chests on hand or are looking to get one,” said Ms Olsen.

“We are happy to try this new angle of virtual sessions in the hope we can improve and grow the program and to touch base with people who need any assistance in any way to manage/maintain their medical chest," she said.

Register to attend online: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SV5FH8K