The advantages of using a recruitment agency with considering a relocation

Are you contemplating a move to Australia or New Zealand?

The prospect of practicing medicine in these countries can be exhilarating, offering opportunities for professional growth, cultural exploration, and a high quality of life.

However, navigating the complex process of securing employment overseas can be daunting.  In this blog, we’ll explore why engaging the services of Transition Medical is a smart move for doctors embarking on this exciting journey.

Expertise in Overseas Placements

We can provide invaluable expertise and experience in facilitating transitions and understand the unique requirements involved in securing medical positions. From visa applications to registration processes, we can streamline your relocation, ensuring a smooth transition for you and your family. We understand the importance of work-life balance and work with like-minded practices, as such we will help negotiate hours and overtime commitments meaning you can have that much-sought-after balance.

Negotiating Salary and relation costs

Negotiating salary and benefits can be daunting, especially in another country when they use a different system. We will negotiate salary and benefits on your behalf, ensuring you receive an offer reflecting your skills, expertise, and market rate.

Access to Exclusive Job Opportunities

We maintain close relationships with hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organisations across both countries, giving you access to exclusive job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly. We also have a wide range of job opportunities giving you more choices and increasing the chances of us finding you the right role.

Efficient and Time-Saving Process

Attempting to navigate the job market in Australia or New Zealand independently can be time-consuming and inefficient. We have procedures in place to expedite the job search and placement process, ensuring that you secure employment promptly.

Ongoing Support and Assistance Throughout

Our assistance doesn’t end once you’ve secured a job offer.  We will continue to offer assistance and support throughout the medical registration and visa application processes.

Transition Medical offers numerous advantages for doctors seeking employment opportunities in Australia and New Zealand. If you’re considering moving Down Under, we can offer exciting opportunities to help you realise your professional ambitions. Please get in touch to find out more.

 

 

Transitioning to General Practice in Australia: The Role of Clinical Interests

Emma is currently travelling around Australia, visiting the wonderful medical centres to gain insights into where you could be working and what they seek in GP recruits. We’re committed to keeping you informed about easing your transition into Australia general practice.

During our conversations with GP owners and exploring the changing landscape of general practice, one recurring topic was whether GPs coming to Australia needed to have a specific area of interest While its not mandatory, many clinic owners suggested that it would be useful for an incoming GP to have an area of clinical interest to complement their practice.

Let’s discuss this further.

Do you need to have a clinical interest to practise as a GP in Australia?

The short answer is no. Many traditional general practices seek well-rounded GPs with comparable qualifications and experience and a great team fit into the practice. However, some practices view having a clinical interest as a great way to build your patient base and ensure a consistent workload.

Which Clinical interests are beneficial?

Personal Interest: Pursuing a field of medicine you’re passionate about is an excellent starting point.

Community Needs: Local community demands may vary based on practice location and patient demographics.  However, certain clinical areas are generally in demand across Australia, including;

– Women’s Health and the ability to fit coils and implants is highly desirable
– Chronic disease management
– Minor Surgery
– Dermatology
– Mental Health
– Elderly care including Aged care facilities

Don’t limit yourself to these areas, the GPs I spoke to had wide and varied interests from geriatric care to medical cannabis to sports medicine.

Why do I need a specialist interest?

As mentioned, this is not an absolute requirement however having a specialist interest  can complement general practice in several ways:

Improving Healthcare Access: Managing complex cases within the practice reduces pressure on specialist waiting times and can offer more affordable care options for patients.

Reducing the referrals to Specialists: If a patient presents with a particular condition, the practice will refer the GP surgery to the most appropriate doctor. This allows the patient to be treated within the clinic rather than elsewhere.

As patients currently have the choice of GP and can register with more than one GP practice, going to a preferred doctor with an interest in their care benefits both patient and doctor.

How will it help you in GP in Australia?

Increased earning potential

– Many practices have or are moving to a mixed billing setting where they charge some patients and bulk bill others. It is still very common to bulk bill children, pension, and health care holders. In this scenario, the private fees charged for minor surgery, dermatology, fitting coils, etc are much higher.
– When bulk billing a patient, having an interest in aged care or chronic disease management is excellent and will increase your potential by utilising chronic disease care plans where you can charge approx—$ 300 for a consult. Most practices have robust procedures in place for maximising income from these.

Increased Job satisfaction

– Some GP Owners I spoke to really enjoyed the varied aspects of general practice and being able to do a wide range of procedural work as well as standard family medicine kept his day interesting. Another has built his patient base around medicinal cannabis and any surgical work he can safely and competently do in the practice.

– Continuity of Care: For patients with chronic conditions, seeing a GP with a special interest in their specific health concern can be invaluable. It allows for a more streamlined and personalised approach to managing their ongoing needs, fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship.

Building your Patient Base

With the nature of general practice, there is an element of building your patient base which can take between 3 – 6 months. Some practices may have a retiring GP or have had to close their books and are turning patients away. Others may have a huge growth of housing in the area and expect a large increase in patients for your arrival.

In any practice, however, before you arrive, the team will be advertising you as a new doctor. Marketing will be done in the local area to let the patients know you are available for appointments. This can be greatly enhanced if you have any area of interest to complement the team and attract patients who need your specialist care. I found it useful having chats with the Australian doctors (many of whom are UK-trained and have made the transition) and getting their insights into ways to manage your practice in Australia.

Conclusion

Transitioning to general practice in Australia offers autonomy in managing your workload and patient care. Conversations with Australian doctors, many of whom underwent similar transitions, provided valuable insights into navigating the Australian healthcare landscape.

If you would like to find out more or have a chat, please get in touch +44 7983 685945,

You can check out our latest GP Jobs here

 

 

Talking with a UK Trained Rural GP working in rural Australia

Transition Medical were contacted by a rural farmer and local community member to assist the rural town of Wudinna to find a GP. The community of 600 people had been without a doctor for almost 2 years. Patients were having to either drive 2 hours to the nearest GP or fly to Adelaide for treatment.

Dr Ernest Wong, a newly qualified UK trained GP signed up for this amazing experience of being the only rural GP doctor in the town. Ernest started work in October 2023 and has put together this wonderful picture of life as a rural GP in Australia. We loved working with Ernest and the team at Wudinna and his placement there has made such a huge difference to the local community.

Happy Reading! Emma Cook, MD Transition Medical.

Dr Scott Lewis, my GP supervisor, flew me out in his plane to the tiny town of 600 people. This was our third flight together and he still hasn’t told me where the parachutes are. I tried not to think too much about that, instead focusing on the excitement of things to come.

Dr Ernest Wong and his Supervisor

I was going to be the new and only doctor in a grain and cattle farming community in a district which covered an area five times the size of London. Besides being the GP for the community, the role also includes providing cover for the local A&E (2 trolleys), acute hospital (8 beds) and nursing home (10 beds).

Wudinna Hospital – If you need a CT scan? The nearest one is 200 km (125 miles) away!

Having arrived in summertime (harvest season), the days are hot and the nights cool. The climate is a hot mediterranean climate that reminded me of Spain.

Not-so-subtle signs that this is a farming community.

Just as we got to the hospital, a paramedic was transporting an elderly patient to the air ambulance (Royal Australian Flying Doctors). I wasn’t expecting Scott to say; “Oh by the way, she (paramedic) is the mayor”. Turns out all the paramedics in town are volunteers! Such is the realities of rural life – everyone must pull together to survive.

 

The mayor is also a part-time columnist.

In my first clinic I was confronted by my biggest challenge yet – a manual blood pressure cuff – which I had not touched in years as a doctor in England. The rest of my day was mostly bread-and-butter GP stuff – minor illness and injuries, chronic disease management, repeat prescriptions and driving license medicals – all whilst grappling with IT, Medicare billing and a gazillion drug brand names (unlike the UK, it is not mandatory to prescribe in generics).

Strangely, the work felt a lot more relaxed compared to the NHS. The tempo is much lower, there is more autonomy and patients are extremely understanding. I have been called away to emergencies several times to return to find that patients have been rescheduled, so I almost never miss lunch or leave the clinic after 5.30 pm.

Providing on-call cover for the hospital was terrifying initially but one gains confidence after a few weeks of support “just a phone call away”. Consultants in various specialities are available 24/7 for video advice and guidance. It also helps that the nurses are local and have a deep understanding of the local community.

 

Nothing says “straya” like spiders!

People here are tough as nails. I saw a 92-year-old man with terminal lung cancer walking into my consulting room unaided without breaking a sweat. He wanted a repeat prescription. Probably fitter than most of my 50-year-old patients in England, I thought. On the flip side, if a stoic farmer presents to A&E during harvest season, best to drop everything and attend to him as it might be something catastrophic.

The community has been welcoming, having provided me with a car and furnished house, complete with a vegetable garden planted ahead of my arrival! I have also received freshly caught fish and baked goodies from at least 4 people so far, and invitations to various social gatherings. It feels refreshing to be looking after a community who are clearly appreciative of my efforts.

 

I was part of a children’s school project, apparently.

Overall, I am glad to have made the Transition down under, one which would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Emma and Kirsty at Transition Medical – from their putting me in touch with the right people to their help with jumping through the numerous regulatory hurdles.

For more information on how you can live an adventure in Australia, please do get in touch or see our GP Jobs Page for further information.

Australian Medical Registration gets easier for UK Doctors

Navigating the Australian regulatory system and AHPRA registration for GPs and other Medical Specialists is complex and has increasingly become more so over the years. In comparison to other countries, Australia’s medical registration and visa application process is more expensive and takes longer.

This has led to the Independent review of Overseas Health Practitioners known as the ‘Kruk report.’ The findings of which have just been released.

You can read the final report here however we have outlined the significant changes which will make your transition to Australia much smoother:

AHPRA

 The Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA) welcomed the findings of the Kruk review into the health practitioner regulatory settings and has implemented some significant changes.

From the 18th December:

  • Overseas based applicants will no longer need to attend in in-person ID check meaning you can apply for your Provider number whilst in your home country and have no wait to start work when you arrive.

Additional to this, since the interim Kruk report review, the average assessment time for international applications has reduced from 29 days to 10 days meaning there is less time to wait for your AHPRA registration assessment.

By streamlining the process, AHPRA are ensuring that overseas trained GPs and doctors will have a reduced administrative burden and reduce costs.

With the recent AHPRA changes announced plus the recent news of the RACGP removing the 10 clinical case studies, it’s allowing an easier pathway for UK GPs to work in Australia. This is just the positive news we were expecting to hear. If you’d like to find out how these changes impact your medical registration application or if you have any questions please do get in touch.

 

 

 

Differences and Similarities in Radiology Healthcare Between UK and NZ 

The Differences in Radiology Healthcare Between UK and NZ Explained

The field of Radiology is ever evolving and the intricacies of practice can vary across countries.   As a Radiologist contemplating a move to New Zealand, it is important to understand the nuances between working in NZ and the UK. 

Radiology practices in New Zealand and the United Kingdom share fundamental principles, but there are notable differences influenced by healthcare systems, training pathways, and patient demographics.

Healthcare System

NZ has a public healthcare system with a mix of public and private radiology services. The UK has the National Health Service (NHS), a publicly funded system. Most radiology services are provided within the NHS framework.

Training and Certification

Radiology training in New Zealand is a five-year program overseen by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR).  The UK has a structured training program within the NHS, leading to the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) qualification.Patient Demographics

In both countries, a large and diverse population contributes to varied cases and a high volume of imaging studies.Technology and Equipment

Both countries employ state-of-the-art technologyWork Environment
NZ may offer a more relaxed work environment with opportunities for outdoor activities.  The UK, with its larger population density, may have a faster-paced work environment, particularly in urban settings.Subspecialisation
In the UK, radiologists often subspecialise early in their careers due to the high demand and specialisation pathways. NZ may provide more generalist roles, especially in smaller centres where radiologists cover a broader range of cases.

 

Transition Medical has job opportunities for experienced Radiologists to join our teams across the country and can provide critical advice and assistance in processing Radiologist applications to a successful outcome. We provide our help at no charge to you!

If a work-life balance is important to you, New Zealand could be the perfect place to grow your career.

Further Reading

Are You a Doctor Considering Relocating to Australia or New Zealand?

Are you a skilled and ambitious doctor contemplating relocation to Australia or New Zealand? Australia and New Zealand are appealing due to their vibrant culture, great weather, excellent quality of life, and a thriving healthcare system.

However, the prospect of relocating as a doctor can be daunting, leaving you uncertain about where to start. This is where Transition Medical come in to help. We provide invaluable insights and practical tips to ensure a seamless transition to your new professional and personal life in Australia or New Zealand.

Understanding the Healthcare Landscape

Both countries boast world-class healthcare systems, and as a doctor, you will play a pivotal role in contributing to its excellence. Before making the move, you need to familiarise yourself with the working patterns and registration requirements.

It’s important to consider where you would like to work, what type of environment you thrive in and importantly, what lifestyle are you looking for? Having lived and worked down under, we can provide advice and guidance to help you make your decision.

Navigating the Medical Registration Process

Securing registration is a crucial step for practicing medicine. As a doctor you will be Licenced under the NZ Medical Council or AHPRA however there are many steps to take to gain this registration. We understand all the intricacies of the registration paperwork from submitting necessary documents to understanding English language requirements and the complex world of College memberships. We will case manage your paperwork and hold a comprehensive understanding of everything you need to do.

Doctor Job Opportunities

Australia and New Zealand offers diverse GP job opportunities and Radiology jobs for medical professionals, with demand across various specialties and regions. From metropolitan areas to regional hubs and remote positions,  discover the unique advantages each location offers for your professional growth and personal lifestyle preferences.

Cultural and Lifestyle Considerations

Relocating to a new country involves more than just a change in profession; it’s a lifestyle shift. Familiarise yourself with the way of life, cultural nuances, and the local healthcare ethos. Get excited about your new work-life balance and recreational activities on offer.

Navigating Doctor Visa Processes

A seamless visa application process is crucial for a smooth relocation. At Transition Medical, our Licenced Immigration Advisors will provide specialist advice and assistance to your unique situation. We will assist you in the application for both temporary and permanent residency visas. Get in touch for more information.

Community Integration and Support Networks

Building a support network is vital for a successful relocation. Connecting with fellow healthcare professionals who have already made the move can offer valuable first hand insights into the challenges and triumphs of living and working in Australia or New Zealand. As part of your relocation we can put you in touch with other doctors who have successfully made the move.

Relocating as a doctor is an exciting and rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning and preparation. We are here to help you make the move; from deciding where to relocate to which practice to join and navigating the complex paperwork, we are on hand all the way. Arrange a call back to find out more.

Further Reading

What do Radiologists Earn in New Zealand

Australian GP Calculator

Moving your Family Pet Overseas

How to Give Yourself the Best Chance of Finding your Dream Job

 

 

 

Expanding Horizons: Continuing Medical Education Opportunities for GPs in New Zealand

Medical Education Opportunities for GPs in New Zealand

Introduction

Embarking on your journey to move to  New Zealand as a GP allows you the opportunity for continuous learning and an enriching travel experience. For GPs seeking to broaden their knowledge and skills, New Zealand offers extensive opportunities to continue your learning opportunities. In this blog, we’ll explore the diverse range of educational experiences awaiting GPs in the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Conferences

New Zealand hosts a range of medical conferences throughout the year. These events cover a wide spectrum of topics, from updates in primary care to specialised areas such as rural medicine, mental health, and indigenous health. Notable conferences like the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) Annual Conference provide a platform for networking, idea exchange, and exposure to the latest research.

Workshops and Training Programs:

Participating in workshops and training programs is an excellent way to acquire practical skills and keep abreast of advancements in the field. Organisations like the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) often organise workshops on clinical procedures, communication skills, and emerging healthcare technologies.

E-Learning Platforms:

In the digital age, accessibility to education is key. Numerous e-learning platforms offer GPs the flexibility to enhance their knowledge remotely. The New Zealand Medical Journal (NZMJ) and other medical institutions provide online courses covering a wide range of topics, enabling GPs to learn at their own pace.

Collaboration and Peer Learning:

Peer learning is a powerful tool for professional development. Collaborative initiatives, such as clinical case discussions, journal clubs, and collaborative research projects, foster a culture of shared learning among GPs. The RNZCGP often facilitates peer learning opportunities for practitioners across the country.

Cultural Competency Training:

Given New Zealand’s diverse population, cultural competency is a crucial aspect of providing effective healthcare. Specialised CME programs focus on enhancing cultural awareness and sensitivity, ensuring that GPs can better navigate the unique healthcare needs of different communities, including the Māori and Pacific Islander populations.

International Medical Conventions:

For GPs with a global perspective, New Zealand serves as an excellent location for international medical conventions. These events attract speakers and delegates from around the world, providing a unique opportunity to gain insights into global healthcare trends, best practices, and innovations.

Conclusion:

In the heart of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities, New Zealand not only offers a fulfilling cultural experience but also a wealth of CME opportunities for general practitioners. Whether you prefer traditional conferences, hands-on workshops, or the convenience of online learning, New Zealand’s commitment to medical education ensures that GPs can continuously evolve and contribute to the well-being of their patients.

So, for GPs seeking to combine professional growth with the adventure of a lifetime, New Zealand beckons with boundless opportunities for lifelong learning.

If you’d like to find out more about how New Zealand can offer the lifestyle you’re looking for please get in touch with one of our team.

Further Reading

Straight to Residence Visa NZ

Highly Paid South Island Job

 

RACGP Updates : Streamlining the process

RACGP Updates for UK GPs

The Royal College of GPs in Australia (RACGP) has made a commitment to ensuring the process of overseas trained GPs is simplified. This is to attract and increase the number of GPs working in GP jobs across Australia.

The possible changes being considered are off the back of the Independent review of overseas health practitioners known as the KRUK report. The results of which are due to be released at some point before the end of the year.

The measures being considered include:

  • simplifying and amending comparability assessments
  • reducing the training and skills comparability scores required
  • simplifying and amending comparability assessments
  • widening the type of training considered applicable
  • removing the multi-source feedback requirement
  • removing the requirement for a reflective essay
  • reducing the minimum time on the Specialist Pathway from six to three months.

Current Changes Implemented

We are thrilled to announce that commencing 22 November 2023, the RACGP has made significant amendments to the Comparability Assessment.

Continued Professional Development (CPD):

There were previous restrictions on number of hours of CPD completed on any specific period which has now been removed.

  • Any 50 hours of CPD completed in the 12 months preceding the Comparability Assessment application will now be eligible for assessment.
  • Previous restrictions on the maximum hours per day (10 hours) and the maximum hours in each CPD area (20 hours) have been removed.
  • Applicants are still required to provide detailed evidence to support their CPD in required number of hours

Clinical Case Analyses (CCA):

The mandatory submission of 10 Clinical Case Analyses (CCA) is no longer required. This is a significant time saving to all GPs going through the PEP pathway. Any new applications will no longer need to provide these case studies.

These adjustments to the Comparability Assessment process for the PEP Specialist Stream represent a positive stride towards improving accessibility for medical professionals seeking recognition in the field.

Overall these are incredibly positive and show that the Royal College of GPs are trying to improve the onboarding process for overseas trained GPs. We hope that this will reduce the burden of administration for your move and paves the way for further positive updates.

Transition Medical will manage the medical registration and visa process for you free of charge. If you have any questions on how these changes will effect your application then please do get in touch.

Further Reading

Navigating the PEP process

Tax System for GPs working in Australia

How to prepare to move to Australia

 

Navigating the RACGP PEP Process

A Comprehensive Guide for GPs relocating to Australia

Embarking on a career as a General Practitioner (GP) in Australia is a rewarding journey, but it requires a thorough understanding of the qualifications and processes involved.

This is where Transition Medical come in. We are experts in providing critical advices and assistance in processing GP’s applications to a successful outcome. We provide our help at no charge to you!

About the PEP Program

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) offers the Practice Experience Program (PEP) for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking recognition as a GP in Australia. In this blog, we will delve into the RACGP PEP process, providing you with valuable insights into the steps, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead.

Understanding the RACGP PEP:

 The RACGP PEP is designed for Specialist GPs who hold a recognised medical degree and a comparable GP qualification.

The program aims to assess and develop the necessary skills and knowledge required for practice in the Australian healthcare system.

Key Steps in the PEP Process:

  • Comparability Assessment
  • Job Approval Check
  • Medicare Provider Number Application
  • Work Based Assessment
  • Awarded Fellowship

Which Documents Do You Need?

The RACGP process is a comprehensive process and best completed with Transition Medical’s guidance. Here are examples of what is required:

  • Medical degree, GP certificates, identity documents
  • Evidence of 50 hours CPD in the last 12 months
  • 10 Completed Clinical case studies
  • Letters of support from your recent GP practices

At first glance it may seem quite a lot of paperwork however we break this down for you and following our instructions, it will be completed with minimal inconvenience.

Transition Medical have completed over 40 RACGP successful PEP applications.

How Long does it Take?

The PEP program takes in total around 24 weeks. The medical registration and visa pathway to work in Australia will take approximately 9 months and we suggest getting in touch 12 months before you want to be in Australia.

Conclusion

The RACGP PEP process is a comprehensive and rigorous pathway for international medical graduates aspiring to become General Practitioners in Australia. While it presents its share of challenges, successful completion opens doors to a fulfilling career in General Practice in Australia.

Transition Medical will guide you through the application and make it as smooth as possible to allow you to focus on the excitement of your relocation journey.

Further Reading

Australia GP Salary

Living in Perth, Australia

 

 

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Here at Transition Medical we get asked many questions from GPs new to their Australia job search. As one of the leading UK GP recruitment agencies we have compiled a brief checklist of things you’ll need to have (and think about)!

  1. Primary Medical Degree from a recognised university – MBBS, MB ChB, MD, MB BCh, BM etc
  1. Language Skills – All overseas trained GPs are required to demonstrate their English competency. This can be proven if English is your primary language, you completed your schooling from a recognised English-speaking country (UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa or USA) and your medical qualifications were completed in English. Without this you will need to have successfully completed PLAB or IELTS.
  1. Medical Registration – Full, current and unconditional registration from your current authority (i.e. GMC) and unconditional registration from any previous registering authority. You will need a Certificate of Good Standing from each authority over the last 10 years.
  1. GP Qualification – The most popular pathway for doctors to work as a GP in Australia RACGP PEP program.The MRCGP and MICGP qualifications are deemed comparable alongside others. If you hold another qualification please do get in touch to discuss your skills and experience.
  1. A Job Offer – To work as a doctor in Australia you need to secure medical registration and a suitable employment visa. The first step of this process is to speak to one of our medical recruitment specialists to find you a great GP job in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne or elsewhere. The demand for skilled workers in Australia is very high and we currently have plenty of GP jobs available across Australia.
  1. Location – Australia is a large country with a diverse range of culture and climate. It can be daunting when you start your job search so it is important to take some time doing your research and working out the best spot for you and your family. Emma has lived and travelled extensively around Australia and can help guide you in the right direction.
  1. Timescales – The medical recruitment process can take some time to navigate through the various stages. You would be wise to allow adequate time for the Australian registration and visa process, we recommend getting in touch approximately 9 – 12 months prior to you arriving to move through all the key stages.
  1. Age doesn’t matter – Medical practices are looking for good all-round GPs, so whether you are newly qualified, mid-way through your career or reaching retirement there will be a GP vacancy available for you.
  1. Relocation costs – Moving overseas can be a fairly expensive process; you must factor in the cost of your registration and visa application plus flights, shipping and getting yourself established. Many practices will help towards some of these costs however we would recommend that you have some money set aside to comfortably make the move.
  1. Finally – When considering working as a doctor in Australia, it may seem a daunting process and you’ll be weighing up the pros and cons of relocating. Many GPs have already made the move and find the working conditions, increased income potential and, of course, lifestyle to be far superior than the UK. Discover what our GPs have to say and why we’re one of the Best Doctor Recruitment Agencies

Further Reading

Find out What life is like for a GP in Australia

What do GPs earn in Australia?

How to find a great Job

Please do get in touch with one of our medical recruitment specialists if you wish to discuss your GP job search further.