FRACGP SUPPORT

Assisting IMGs and Registrars to Gain Vocational Registration

International medical graduates (IMGs) have already passed medical exams in their country of origin but it is an expectation of the medical board that GPs gain RACGP Fellowship, to have specialist general practice qualifications. This has to be obtained within 60 months. Attaining Fellowship also allows GPs to claim a higher payment for Medicare.

For many IMGs preparing for this exam is onerous, as they are already working full time, and have passed medical exams but have to apply their clinical knowledge to a different health system. This includes learning about confidentiality, communication and understanding the health needs (those said and not said) in a consultation.

Some financial support is available through RWAV, through a program called Rural Exam Preparation Program (REPP). The Division provides a case management approach to assist IMGs identify their learning needs and the appropriate education to reach their goals. Not all IMGs can access RWAV funding, only those who come through Victorian Overseas Rural Recruitment Scheme (VORRS) or Rural Locum Relief Program (RLRP).

Fellowship Newsletter

Southern GP Training and West Vic Division combined AMC & GP Fellowship Newsletter

Registrars

Australian general practice registrars are also preparing for their Fellowship and they are supported by the Australian General Practice Training program (AGPT). Our regional general practice training provider is Beyond Medical Education, based in Bendigo. Some of our GP members work with Beyond Medical Education, taking registrars in their practice and providing supervision. The supervisors are a precious resource in our region and they often assist with IMG support.

Beyond Medical Education has recognised that they have the skills and the infrastructure to assist IMGs.

Currently the Division assists non Vocationally Registered (VR’d) GPs with:

  • Support to become a member of RACGP
  • Support with the eligibility process to enrol in the exam
  • Support to enrol in the exam
  • Networking links to other non VR’d GPs
  • Facilitating one day workshops
  • One on one tutorials
  • Access to DVD, CD and video resources
  • Notification and advice on external workshops
  • Support to navigate through external processes i.e. REPP

The Division uses strict protocols to ensure all of our IMGs and registrars are supported when they arrive. If you are yet to sit the FRACGP exam and are not being supported, please email our Workforce Manager or call the Ararat office.

For further information contact Tina Wilde Workforce Manager.

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