The location of federally-funded “multi-purpose” facilities can help supplement services in communities but may also instigate disinvestment by state governments in hospitals or appropriate transfer arrangements. This medical outreach is expensive but has become a vital part of health service delivery in Australia’s most remote parts. Such schemes work best when a visiting specialist pairs with a local GP to manage a patient’s care. There is a need to maintain investments in technologies to help overcome geographical challenges to care. Telehealth is a very promising innovation in Australia and internationally, using technology to link patients or GPs in rural areas to specialists in regional centres or major cities.