Applications open for Rural Women New Zealand and Access Scholarship

The Rural Women New Zealand and Access Scholarship is aimed at applicants who are working in the health field with rural connections, and wish to further their studies in health or disability studies.

Preference will be given to applicants who are studying at post-graduate level.

"Access is proud to support ongoing professional development for health professionals working in the rural community, and we are pleased to continue to offer the scholarship alongside Rural Women New Zealand," says Simon Lipscombe, chief executive of Access.

Wendy McGowan, national president of Rural Women New Zealand says the organisation is committed to offering the scholarship to rural health professionals.

"We advocate for equity in health services in rural communities on a par with urban areas. That includes upskilling our health professionals to offer quality information and advice to rural patients."

Last year the scholarship was awarded to Heather Leong, a Community Registered Nurse based in Waikato.

Heather intended to use the scholarship to fund her studies to complete an International Integrative Nurse Coach Certificate in the United States.

Heather is now using the skills gained from her studies in her nursing work in the Waikato rural community.

Applications close on 1 July 2016. Full information and application forms can be found at www.ruralwomen.org.nz or www.access.org.nz