Mr Rudd said during discussions health professionals at Bridge Cinic discussed types of support mechanisms necessary for the future including the need for the expansion of primary health care capital facilities.

Rural Doctors Association of Australia past president and Bridge Clinic Doctor Peter Rischbieth said the opportunity to sit down with Mr Rudd was a great step forward. "When he (the Prime Minister) said last year that he wanted to consult with practitioners, the Rural Doctors Association invited him to come to rural and regional South Australia," he said.

Dr Rischbieth said the meeting allowed the doctors to show the Prime Minister how many medical practices were already operating as mini super clinics.

He said these could be built upon to meet medical needs in their communities.

Discussions focused on key issues affecting rural practices such as the need to support international practitioners.

"We have trouble attracting international medical graduates and they need more support," Dr Rischbieth said.

"They need to be able to access Medicare for their own families when they come here to provide essential services.

"We made sure the Prime Minister was aware of all the other problems they face as well, particularly when they live in rural areas."

Dr Rischbieth said overall he felt there were many good ideas floated at the public forum earlier in the day that could be built upon.

Consultation: Doctor Peter Rischbieth met with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during his visit to Murray Bridge yesterday where he consulted with local doctors about the needs of the health system.