"It has always been about improving services," he said.

"There are obviously going to be workforce challenges in the future – no matter what we do.

"Part of this plan is about working to encourage more doctors and nurses to move to country South Australia by expanding acute and primary health services and working with the Rural Doctors Workforce Agency to continue their excellent work in recruiting doctors."

His comments come after city and country residents rallied in Norwood on Saturday, calling for the plan to be "binned" by the State Government.

More than 200 people attended, many holding placards urging 'Save our country hospitals', 'Hands off Maitland Hospital', 'Mr Rann didn't do his homework', and 'Say no to Hill's first aid posts'.