Registrar Placement Policy
Last update: September 2021
Relevant resources
GP trainee Placement handbook
TR 002 Diversity and Training experience
TR 026 Boundaries in Therapeutic and Professional Relationships Guidelines
ED 022 Training Post Supervisor Accreditation Procedure: new training post
AGPT Obligation policy
AGPT Rural Generalist Policy 2020
ACRRM Fellowship Training
National Terms and Conditions for the Employment of Registrars (NTCER)
1. Purpose
To facilitate the placement of registrars to practices, in a transparent and equitable way. Whilst addressing community need and considering the registrars’ career goals and training requirements.
2. Scope
This policy applies to registrars enrolled in the Australian General Practice Training (APGT) program with Murray City County Coast GP Training (MCCC).
Nothing in this policy negates any other obligations placed on a registrar, specific requirements of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) or requirements of the AGPT Rural Generalist Policy.
Registrars and practices must participate in the process for a placement to be approved by MCCC.
3. Policy
Placement is a process that must consider the needs and requirements of communities, practices, supervisors and registrars training needs. As well as obligations and requirements of the AGPT program, the Department of Health (the Department), RACGP and ACRRM.
Placing registrars in practices is intended to:
- assist in building a sustainable primary healthcare team within the MCCC footprint especially in areas of higher workforce need
- encourage registrars to take advantage of the experience offered by more rural and remote practices
- support each registrar’s identified training needs e.g. Rural Generalist (RG Pathways), RG Consolidation of Skills, College requirements and general pathway obligations
- ensure equitable distribution of registrars to training practices
- ensure transparency of process, and,
- expose registrars to a variety of practices
Registrars are required by AGPT to train full time unless otherwise pre-approved a minimum of 20 days prior to placement.
MCCC will implement strategies to ensure that registrars with specific needs and requiring particular opportunities are placed accordingly.
MCCC will take into consideration the Registrar’s college/s requirements when approving the practices registrars may apply to.
4. Pathway specific requirements
RACGP General Pathway registrars
General Pathway registrars are predominately placed in MMM1 locations being Melbourne or Geelong CBD but also have access to MMM2 – 7 training placements.
General Pathway registrars have an outer-metro or rural obligation.
Outer Metro – Due to the number of outer-metro practices available, Metro West registrars are required to train a maximum of 12 calendar months in outer-metro
Rural locations – General Pathway registrars may however undertake all or some of their training in MMM2 – 7 locations.
Due to the availability of practices within the Metro West region, MCCC recommends Metro West registrars undertake two six-month placements.
RACGP Rural Pathway registrars
RACGP Rural Pathway registrars must be placed in practices in MMM2 – 7 locations or Priority Distribution Areas.
With consideration to fatigue management and registrar well-being, registrars on the rural pathway are expected to reside within 60 minutes’ travel time from the practice in which they are being matched to. Attempting to reside further away than this while training in the rural pathway is detrimental to training and registrar well-being.
It is a requirement that registrars will live and work in the area where placed. RACGP registrars are required to undertake the diversity requirement set by the College.
ACRRM registrars
ACRRM registrars are to apply to practices that will provide them with the environment and training best suited to this pathway.
ACCRM registrars are considered Rural Generalists (RG) and are therefore eligible to apply through the RG placement process, to a defined pathway.
Alternatively, ACRRM registrars are recommended to participate in the Priority Placement process, which provides preferential access to practices that provide the rural and remote context experience as specified by the College.
MCCC strongly advocate for ACRRM registrars to undertake their Community Primary Care in an MMM4 and above locations.
RACGP Rural Generalists (RG)
RACGP Rural Generalist registrars will have a separate placement process where they can apply to defined RG pathways or be placed in practices that offer Rural Generalist-Consolidation of their Advanced Skill.
RACGP Rural Generalist registrars are to complete training plans with defined pathways that are advertised and obtained. The registrar is required to train in the post and practices detailed within their designated pathway.
Should a Rural Generalists registrar not be successful in obtaining an advertised training pathway, they may participate in the Priority or Competitive Placement process. These practices are in MMM3 and above locations.
5. Prior to Allocation Process
Important Information for Registrars
All intakes
MCCC works in partnership with hospitals and expects registrars, who have accepted a hospital position for the following year, to honour that commitment. MCCC will not support registrars reneging on an accepted hospital placement to commence their training in general practice unless there is agreement from the hospital to release the registrar. Evidence must be provided by the registrar from their employer that identifies in writing their agreement to release the registrar.
AGPT Second Intake
Most candidates who successfully obtain a place with MCCC in the second AGPT intake, will undertake hospital term for their first year of training. To avoid disappointment of being unable to secure a placement, those GP trainees are strongly encouraged to obtain a hospital placement.
Typically, only limited practice placement vacancies are available for second intake and MCCC’s GP Trainee Placement Handbook provides information on possible vacancies at the time of second intake.
Placement into Practice vacancies in second intake will be subject to candidates:
- Securing a Practice Placement in the vacancies available before and submitting to MCCC any Medicare Provider Number information required within required timelines; and
- Not having accepted an offer of employment with a hospital; and
- Submitting and meeting Hospital Experience Assessment requirements within MCCC timelines
6. Allocation Process
Registrars with identified training requirements will be placed in practices that can provide this training e.g. Consolidation of Skills training, Rural Generalist training and identified training support. Community need will also be given precedence. This regulation supersedes all other placement regulations.
There is a restriction on the number of highly desirable (HD) ratings a registrar and practice can be allocated:
Registrars:
- 1 x HD rating (per placement)
- No limit on Desirable (D) ratings
Practices:
- 1 x HD rating per training level for TT1-2 and/or TT3-4* for 12 months (two registrars in total)
- Practices placements for single-semesters (6 months) can preference 1 x HD registrar per term (two registrars for the year)
*Allocations of TT 3-4 registrars will be reviewed by MCCC based on factors such as practice accreditation and availability of registrars.
Practices should remain open to receive applications during the entire initial application period. Registrars are aware they have this nominated time period to apply so closing applications early may disadvantage registrars.
Practices must provide one full time equivalent (FTE) supervisor for every two registrars to adequately support the teaching and learning requirements. MCCC will not support placement of registrars above this ratio, without exceptional circumstances and pre-approval.
Practices hoping for multiple registrars are better to indicate this capacity with additional TT 1-2 registrars, rather than have an expectation of a TT 3-4 registrar, as the number available can be limited.
Allocations will prioritise community need and training requirements e.g. RG-Consolidation of Skills placements.
Following this, HD Practice to HD Registrars matches and subsequent desirable matches will be allocated.
Allocations are made in the following order:
- Community or training need
- HD Practice to HD Registrar
- HD Practice to D Registrars
- D Practice to D Registrar.
MCCC will endeavour to match a minimum of one GP Trainee for each suitable practice, until all vacancies are filled.
MCCC is unable to guarantee that this minimum number will be achieved for every practice as factors such as number of GP Trainees, practice and registrar preferences, training requirements and practice restrictions must be considered by MCCC when determining allocation. For equity purposes, once all practices that received a preference are filled with at least one registrar, additional allocations may then be made dependent on registrar numbers and suitability of the practice.
It is expected that all practices accredited for TT1 registrars are able to receive at least one TT1 for a minimum of 12 months over a three-year period (this can be 2 x six-month placements).
MCCC is responsible for ensuring GP trainees are placed in a suitable training practice
7. Conditions Pertaining to the Registrar Placement Process
- Under this policy direct approaches or agreements cannot be made between a registrar and practice. Registrars and practices should not attempt to make private arrangements or for a placement as MCCC will not approve these agreements.
- Registrars and practices must not discuss how they intend to preference each other. Registrars and practices not abiding by this condition are at danger of being withdrawn from the placement process.
- MCCC require registrars and practices to be considerate of their peers and other training practices and to follow these regulations during the placement process.
- Registrars must advise the practice of the time fraction they intend to work and any upcoming leave at the time of interview.
- Both registrar and practice should discuss the requirements of the position e.g. after-hours work, on-call, anticipated leave etc.
- The final placement is the decision of MCCC with consideration given to both parties’ preferences and any other factors that are relevant to the placement. Placements in the Competitive Placement phase will not be allocated until the end of the placement period regardless of when the submission comes in.
- Once the placement has closed and MCCC emails out the placement outcome, the placement is considered binding. This is not reliant on a contract between the registrar and practice being in place.
Additional Practice Obligations
- A practice must be able to provide enough supervision for the number of registrars in training. The ratio being two registrars for every one accredited supervisor.
- Through the accreditation and/or re-accreditation process practices will be informed of the level/s of registrar/s suitable to train in their practice
- In some circumstances due to limited supervision or location restrictions, some practices are accredited to receive only higher level registrars. In these circumstances placements will be distributed to also factor in these requirements.
- Supervisors must inform registrars of any upcoming leave and/or changes to supervision at the time of interview.
Additional Registrar obligations
- Registrars must complete all scheduled interviews before submitting their preferences. Failing to attend scheduled interviews is unprofessional and will limit registrars’ chances of being allocated to a practice.
- Registrars must interview with practices in order to preference them.
- Registrars must inform practices of any upcoming leave and/or changes to hours, or any other employment changes that may impact on registrar training at the time of interview.
- Registrars must preference a minimum of three genuine practice options for their application to be considered.
8. Withdrawals
During the placement process
A registrar or practice may withdraw during the placement process however they must inform MCCC and the other involved parties immediately.
- The registrar must advise all practices they have interviewed or have booked to interview at, and MCCC of their intended withdrawal.
- The practice must advise all registrars they have interviewed or have booked to interview and MCCC of their intended withdrawal.
After the placement process
Once the placement has closed and MCCC emails out the placement outcome, the placement is considered binding. This is not reliant on a contract between registrar and practice being in place.
If for any reason a registrar or practice wishes not to continue with the placement, they have been allocated by MCCC, the withdrawing party may not receive a placement by MCCC for that same term or advertised vacancy.
9. Procedure
Please refer to the MCCC GP Trainee Placement Handbook for the details of the Placement Process, including key dates and actions required.
Practices and registrars will also be provided with information at relevant points via email.
- Practices will utilise the MCCC practice portal to communicate shortlisted registrars and final preferences.
- Registrars will be emailed a link to enter their preferences at the appropriate time.
10. Document history
Version |
Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version – list major key changes with each version change |
2.0 |
Second version |
3.0 |
Third version |
4.0 |
Fourth version |
5.0 |
Fifth version |
6.0 |
Sixth version |
7.0 |
Seventh version |
8.0 |
Eighth version |
Diversity of Training Experience Policy and Procedure
Last update: August 2020
Relevant resources
TRF 002a Alternative Option to Practice Site Diversity Application
TRF 002b Exemption to Practice Site Diversity Application
AGPT Training Region Obligations Policy
RACGP Standards for General Practice Training A Guide to Managing Practice Diversity
Vocational Training Pathway – Requirements for Fellowship Policy
1. Purpose
To guide registrars training towards Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) in meeting the RACGP’s diversity of training experience requirement. This document should be read in conjunction with the RACGP’s “Vocational Training Pathway – Requirements for Fellowship Policy” and the associated “A Guide to Managing Practice Diversity”.
2. Scope
This document outlines the procedure by which registrars, enrolled in the RACGP training pathway, can meet their diversity requirement with MCCC.
3. Policy
The RACGP Diversity policy requires registrars to have exposure to at least two different supervisors and two different practice management systems. In addition to this there is a requirement to be exposed to diverse patient populations.
MCCC and the RACGP emphasise that the best way to meet this requirement is to have experience across different practices.
Diversity cannot be met by working in a branch practice associated with the registrar’s main practice. A definition of a branch practice is available in the document “A guide to Managing Practice Diversity”.
It is acknowledged that there are circumstances where a registrar may consider that moving practices will pose undue hardship. In this case a registrar may request an exemption. Exemption requests will be considered on a case by case basis.
Pressure should not be applied to registrars to remain in one practice (or a group of similar practices) if they wish to move between training terms.
MCCC will assist registrars in meeting their diversity requirements. The requirements can be met in several ways1.
- Working in at least two practices during their GPT 1-4 terms.
- Utilising the alternative options to diversity training available to MCCC registrars
- Request an exemption to moving practice TRF 002 Exemption to Practice Site Diversity Application and meet the RACGP requirements by other means.
4. Procedure
1.Working in at least two practices
Placements are made via the Registrar Placement process.
1MW (Metro West) region registrars are expected to move practices in their GPT 1, GPT 2 and GPT 3 terms. Registrars in the MW region who wish to stay in a practice for greater than a training term are required to discuss and request prospective approval from the MW RHE and the DMET.
2. Alternative options
Alternative options include either a composite post or attendance at an alternative practice for a shorter duration of time. These are explained below:
- Composite
- A composite post is achieved by working a minimum of fourteen and a half (14.5) hours per week over two (2) days for a minimum of twenty-six (26) weeks in an Aboriginal Health Post, while continuing to work a minimum of fourteen and a half (14.5) hours per week over two (2) days in the current practice.
- Attendance at an alternate practice for a specified number of sessions per week over a specified period.
- Registrars must work at an alternative practice for a minimum of fourteen and a half (14.5) hours per week over two (2) days as a minimum in any one position. A total of twenty-six (26) working days must be achieved under this arrangement, which can be done as a continuous six-week block or part time for three (3) sessions a week across fourteen (14) weeks. If more sessions are undertaken per week, the duration will be reduced pro rata.
- The alternative practice must be an RACGP-accredited practice, situated in the same region as the registrar, and able to provide appropriate supervision in accordance with the registrar’s level of The practice must not be a branch practice, as defined by the RACGP.
- The registrar must notify their REAPS of their intention to utilise one of the alternative options to meet their diversity This should be done at least 3 months prior to the practice match so that there is adequate time for the request to be addressed and provider number applications processed.
- The REAPS will then notify the RHE. If both the registrar and RHE agree to the proposed option, a confirmatory email will be sent to the registrar by the RHE.
- Once details of the placement are finalised, the registrar must complete TRF 002a Alternative Option to Practice Site Diversity Application and send it to the REAPS. This must be submitted at least 2 months prior to the placement commencement.
- It is the responsibility of the registrar to arrange their diversity placement, complete the relevant paperwork in the stated timeframe and undertake the proposed The registrar will not be eligible for fellowship until the diversity placement is completed.
3. Exemption to Practice Site Diversity
In certain circumstances, and only in discussion with the RHE, DMET and training practice, a registrar may remain in a single practice for the entirety of their training. For example, if a registrar has moved their family to a rural community and considers that leaving the community would be detrimental to the registrar, their family, the practice and the community, an exemption would be considered.
- For an exemption to be considered, the registrar must discuss their situation with their regional RHE as early in their training as possible
- If the RHE agrees that the registrar’s situation meets the requirements of an exemption, then the matter is discussed with the DMET
- If both the DMET and the RHE agree that an exemption is reasonable, the registrar will be required to complete and submit Section A of the TRF 002b Exemption to Practice Site Diversity Application form within 4 weeks of being notified by MCCC.
- Information that is to be provided in Section A includes:
- The names of two MCCC accredited supervisors who actively undertake your clinical supervision in your current practice
- Details of how the registrar plans to meet the practice management
- PRACTICE MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS
It is expected that the registrar will read through the following three of the modules in the General Practice Management Toolkit of the RACGP
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- Business Structure
- Practice Teams and
- Leadership Clinical Governance
The registrar will then arrange a visit to another general practice and write a comparative essay (600 -1000 words) between the two practice management systems under the three headings above, focusing on:
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- Benefits and Risks of the two business models identified
- Attributes of effective working groups
- Risk assessment of the clinical governance across the two practices.
- Alternatively, the registrar can submit a detailed plan of how they wish to meet the Practice Management Requirements. This option will need to be to be discussed with and approved by the RHE and the DMET.
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- Evidence of “Scope of Practice” the registrar plans to provide to show the comprehensiveness of practice, as outlined in the RACGP definition of general practice.
COMPREHENSIVENESS OF PRACTICE
“General practitioners are not limited by age, gender, body system, disease process or service site. The scope of clinical practice is challenging, spanning prevention, health promotion, early intervention for those at risk, and the management of acute, chronic and complex conditions within the practice population whether in the home, practice, health service, outreach clinic, hospital or community.”
This could be demonstrated using the following alternatives:
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- Logbook of 100 consecutive patients providing details such as age, gender, presenting complaint/s, acute vs chronic, use of health promotion/preventative health practices.
- Audit of the last 100 patients seen outlining the same as above.
- Report of the patients seen over the last month detailing scope of practice, as outlined above, using a data extraction tool (eg. PEN CAT Tool).
- An alternative different from above. This option will need to be discussed with and approved by the RHE and the DMET.
- A combination of any of the above alternatives. This option will need to be discussed with and approved by the RHE and the DMET.
5. If approved, the registrar will be notified in
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- The registrar will then complete the activities as outlined in their application within the first three semesters of training
- The registrar will then submit Section B of TRF 002b Exemption to Practice Site Application form by the proposed date (stated in Section A). Note: The date must be at least six months prior to the registrar’s anticipated completion of training
6. If the submission does not meet the requirements as outlined in sections 3.4.2 and 4.3.4.3 above, the registrar will be asked to resubmit. The registrar will not be eligible for fellowship until the activities planned to meet diversity requirements are completed to a satisfactory standard.
5. Document history
Version |
Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
2.0 |
Second version |
3.0 |
Amendments made throughout document |
4.0 |
Amended sections 4.2 and 4.3 |
Transfers between Training Pathways Procedures
Last update: January 2019
Relevant resources
TR 007 Registrar Placement Policy and Procedure
TR 013 Change of MCCC Region Policy
AGPT Application – Pathway Transfer
AGPT Application – Transfer Between RTOs or Training Region
1. Purpose
To ensure that applications to transfer between pathways are dealt with in a fair and transparent manner and in accordance with the AGPT Transfer Policy.
2. Scope
This procedure applies to formal applications received from registrars enrolled in the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program wishing to transfer between pathways.
3. Definitions
The following definitions apply to this procedure:
MMM 3. Geographical Remoteness Classification
The Modified Monash Model is a geographic classification system: The Modified Monash Model is a geographical classification system which uses up-to-date population data which can be used to better address the maldistribution of medical services across developed by eminent rural academics at Monash University that allows quantitative comparisons between city and country Australia. The Modified Monash (MM) categories (once called Remoteness Areas RAs) are defined as follows:
MM 1: All major cities of Australia.
MM 2: Inner and outer regional Australia that in terms of remoteness: the physical distance of a location from the nearest urban centre based on population size. There are in, or within 20 kilometres road distance, of a town with a population >50,000.
MM 3: Inner and outer regional Australia not included in MM 2 and are in, or within, 15 kilometres road distance of a town with a population between 15,000 and 50,000.
MM 4: Inner and outer regional Australia not included in MM 2 or MM 3 and are in, or within, 10 kilometres road distance of a town with a population between 5,000 and 15,000.
MM 5: All other inner and outer regional Australia.
MM 6: All areas categorised as remote Australia that are not on a populated island that is separated from the Australian mainland in the Australian Bureau of Statistics geography and is more than 5 kilometres offshore.
MM 7: All other areas – that being all areas categorised as very remote Australia and areas on a populated island that is separated from the Australian mainland in the Australian Bureau of Statistics geography and is more than 5 kilometres offshore.
Category 2 (transfer): One of the three seven MM categories:
MM1: |
Major Cities (formerly RA1) |
MM2: |
Large Regional areas – areas formerly categorised RA2 and RA3 that are in, or within 20km road distance of a town with population less than 50,000. |
MM3: |
Medium Large Regional – areas formerly categorised RA2 and RA3 that are not in MM2 and are in, or within 15km road distance, of a town with population between 15,000 and 50,000. |
MM4: |
Medium Regional – areas formerly categorised RA2 and RA3 that are not in MM2 or MM3 and are in, or within 10 km road distance of a town with population between 5,000 and 15,000. |
MM5: |
Small Regional – All other areas in RA2 and RA3. |
MM6: |
Remote – All areas categorised RA4 that are not on a populated island that is separated from the mainland in the ABS geography and is more than 5km offshore. |
MM7: |
Very Remote – All other areas, that being RA5 and areas on a populated island that is separated from the mainland in the ABS geography and is more than 5km offshore. |
4. Policy
- Registrars training on the general pathway do not require an AGPT approved transfer in order to train in a Modified Monash Model MM1-MM7 location. The general pathway includes MM1-7 locations.
- However, registrars should note that MCCC has a policy regarding the placement of general pathway registrars in MM2-7 locations. Registrars should read this procedure in conjunction with TR 007 Registrar Placement Policy and Procedure.
- Where registrars need to undertake Extended Skills, Advanced Specialised Training and/or Advanced Rural Skills Training terms, MCCC may approve rural pathway registrars temporarily training in an MM1 location. Upon completion of the training term, rural pathway registrars are expected to return to their MM2-7 placements. A transfer from the rural pathway to the general pathway is not required in this instance.
- For registrars subject to section 19AB of the Health Insurance Act 1973 (the ten-year moratorium), successful application for exemption from the moratorium is a prerequisite to an application for transfer from rural pathway to general pathway training. The granting of an exemption to the 19AB moratorium is not a guarantee that an application for transfer will be granted.
- Registrars wishing to request a pathway change that may also require a change of MCCC region must also read TR 013 Change of MCCC Region Policy.
5. Procedure
- Before formally applying for a transfer between pathways, a registrar is encouraged to discuss the anticipated application with his or her GP supervisor, Training Advisor (TA), Regional Head of Education (RHE) and/or Registrar Education and Practice Support (REAPS) Coordinator.
- A registrar initiates the formal application to transfer between pathways by completing the AGPT Application – Pathway Transfer in addition to the TRF 0013 Change of MCCC Region form. This is sent to their REAPS Coordinator via email, together with supporting documents.
- The REAPS will check that the application is complete and forward it to MCCC’s Training Operations Team Leader (TOTL), acting as the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) delegate.
- The TOTL will take the application to a committee comprised of the CEO and Director of Medical Education & Training (DMET) and discuss with the registrars Regional Head of Education, which will consider whether:
- The request is for a skills training term, rather than a general practice term.
- All options for rural placements within MCCC’s training footprint have been exhausted.
- Applicable requirements under Section 19AB of the Health Insurance Act 1973 have been met.
- The registrar has any identified career and/or education and training requirements.
- The registrar, or an immediate family member, has had extenuating and unforeseen changes to their personal circumstances.
The committee will support or decline the request and, if supported, the TOTL will send the AGPT Application – Pathway Transfer to the Department of Health. It is noted that MCCC does not have the authority to approve an application to transfer from rural to general pathway.
- The Department will notify MCCC of the outcome within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the completed and supported application.
- The TOTL will notify the registrar of the Department’s decision.
6. Document history
Version |
Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
2.0 |
Second version |
3.0 |
Amendment to definitions section to include MMM classification definitions Third version – change from ASGC-RA to Modified Monash Model (MM1-MM7) |
Dual Practice Part Time Training Placements
Last update: January 2019
Relevant resources
TRF 017a Variation of Training Time Application
TR 022 MCCC Professional Behaviours Policy
MCCC Registrar Agreement (Provided to each Registrar)
AGPT Training Obligations Policy
Doctor Connect www.doctorconnect.gov.au
RACGP Vocational Training Pathway – Requirements for Fellowship Policy – November 2018
Legislation
Fair Work Australia
Requests for flexible working arrangements
1. Purpose
This is a guidance document for registrars wishing to undertake training in two practices concurrently. Its purpose is to ensure that both registrars and training posts undertaking such arrangements can anticipate and address in advance any potential issues which may arise.
This document is applicable to all MCCC regions, however it has particular implications for AGPT General Pathway where registrars are required to comply with the AGPT Training Outer Metro Obligations Policy.
2. Scope
This policy is applicable to registrars and supervisors in MCCC training practices. Registrars, supervisors and medical educators should ensure that they are familiar with the MCCC Professional Behaviours Policy (TR 022) and comply with Fair Work legislation when considering dual practice placements.
3. Definitions
The following definitions apply to this document:
Outer metropolitan practice: A practice located in an outer metropolitan area as defined by Department of Health (www.doctorconnect.gov.au).
Inner metropolitan practice: A practice which does not comply with the definition of an outer metropolitan practice as above.
4. Policy
All part time placements must comply with the RACGP Vocational Training Pathway – Requirements for Fellowship Policy (November 2018) which defines the minimum number of hours a registrar must work to be eligible for Fellowship. This stipulates part time training as a minimum 10.5 hrs face to face, rostered, patient consultation time undertaken over a minimum of two days within a 14.5hr working week.
For ACCRM registrars –part time training must be based on an agreed minimum proportion of the equivalent full-time training position. Part time training which is less than 50% of full time is not encouraged.
5. Procedure
Where a registrar wishes to work part time concurrently in two practices:
- In general, MCCC will only permit registrars at GPT/PRRT – 3/4 level to work part time concurrently in two practices.
- Registrars who sign a contract to work full time in a practice and subsequently wish to change to part time need to inform the practice of their request and receive MCCC approval from the RHE twenty (20) business days prior to commencement of the placement, unless urgent circumstances intervene. The practice has a right to decline the request on grounds of workforce requirements and in compliance with Fairwork Australia (https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/requests-for-flexible-working-arrangements)
- Registrars who wish to change from full time to part time hours need to have extenuating circumstances for this to be approved (e.g. health issues, childcare arrangements, family issues or other unforeseen matters – these should be discussed with the RHE).
- Where a registrar reduces from full time to part time work, the part time hours to be worked must be mutually agreeable to all parties. If a registrar then wishes to return to full-time work hours, where applicable, this should be with the original practice in which the registrar was placed.
- If a registrar has commenced contracted full-time work and subsequently reduces to part time work and then wishes to undertake work concurrently at another practice, approval must be obtained from both practices and the MCCC RHE twenty (20) business days before this can proceed.
- It is advisable that registrars making applications for more than one part time position disclose to both practices of their intention to seek part time training positions concurrently. This is to ensure that arrangements are in place to facilitate the registrar’s day to day transition and working hours between the two practices.
- Where a registrar proceeds with a change in training hours/arrangements as outlined above, the employment contract must reflect this.
- Registrars who change work hours must submit to MCCC TRF 0017A Variation of Training Time Application twenty (20) business days prior to the anticipated commencement of the placement.
- Except in extenuating circumstances, only one change of registrar working arrangements is permitted per training term.
Where a registrar is already working in an approved part time arrangement concurrently in two practices:
- Registrars should generally work full days in each practice and not split the day working across both practices. Split days may carry implications for patient care with unforeseen issues arising in either practice affecting the registrar’s work in the other practice.
- Registrars cannot expect to change working hours in either practice where this may affect the hours in the second practice, without clear agreement from all parties.
- Registrars need to take into consideration that it may not be possible to take leave from both practices at the same time or to make demands about weekend work hours because of this arrangement.
- Where a registrar is working part time in two practices and needs to return to full time employment, this must be undertaken in their original practice where the registrar was placed in the first instance, where applicable. If this is not possible, this return to full time work can be undertaken in another practice. The registrar must submit to MCCC TRF 0017A Variation of Training Time Application twenty (20) business days prior to the anticipated commencement of the placement.
Guidance for training practices:
- Training practices offering full time positions only, need to inform registrars of this at interview and state in their contract that a change to part time is not possible because of practice work force demands.
- Full time training positions advertised on the practice website should be clear that the position is full time only and not available to applicants seeking part time work, unless the practice has the capacity to accommodate this.
Teaching Requirements:
GPT3/PRRT3 registrars require at least 45 minutes of protected face to face teaching per week. registrars and practices undertaking dual practice arrangements need to ensure that this requirement is met. Agreed teaching arrangements should be clearly documented in employment contracts prior to commencement. In general, registrars and practices undertaking a 50/50 split dual practice placement will alternate their teaching weeks. Variations to dual practice placement fractions and teaching arrangements should be discussed with the RHE and agreed to by all parties prior to approval of placements.
Please refer to the MCCC Registrar Agreement for teaching payment information.
6. Document history
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Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
Boundaries in Therapeutic and Professional Relationships Guidelines
Last update: November 2020
Relevant resources
AHPRA: Good medical practice: a code of conduct for doctors in Australia
RACGP: Keeping the Doctor Alive
AMA: Victorian Doctors Health Program and AMA Peer Support Service
1. Purpose
Clearly define boundaries associated with therapeutic relationships and employment relationships or arrangements, that may impact on the registrar’s capacity to train successfully.
2. Scope
Applies to all medical practitioners either employed by MCCC or involved in the AGPT program with MCCC, such as General Practice Supervisors and GP Trainees, including doctors involved in PEP (Practice Experience Program).
3. Definitions
Therapeutic relationship: A professional doctor-patient relationship.
Close personal relationships (previously known as pre-existing relationships):
The relationship between a registrar and their own or their supervisor’s:
- Spouse
- Partner
- Parent or parent-in-law
- Sibling
- Child
- Close friend (as defined by the registrar)
Practice Ownership: the registrar being an owner (full or part) or shareholder in the training practice in which they wish to train.
GPS: General Practice Supervisor
GP Trainee: GP Registrar
4. Policy
- In the event of a medical emergency, care of the patient is the priority regardless of any existing relationship between a medical practitioner and a patient.
- Close personal relationships blur professional boundaries making it difficult to maintain objective therapeutic relationships. These issues are compounded for GP registrars who require supervisor advice and support. To avoid potential conflicts of interest and protect registrars and close personal relationships and therapeutic relationships should be kept separate.
- It is recognised that circumstances may exist in rural practice which can make applicability of these guidelines difficult. Any such circumstances should be referred to the DMET.
Therapeutic relationships
- MCCC strongly supports the position of AHPRA (1), the RACGP (6.2), ACCRM and the AMA (6.3) that all medical practitioners should have their own general practitioner and only access medical care and prescriptions from that GP in an established therapeutic relationship.
- Medical practitioners may at times need to treat colleagues, family members or friends either as the doctor or patient, for reasons such as an emergency or in the circumstances of rural practice. Where this is necessary, adequate documentation and an awareness of any potential or personal conflict is vital. This documentation should be subsequently forward to the patient’s usual GP.
The following scenarios are strongly discouraged by MCCC as they can blur boundaries and may put the registrar, the patient and the training practice at risk.
While employed as a Registrar within an accredited MCCC Training Post:
- GP Supervisors and Registrars should not enter formal therapeutic relationships with each other while the Registrar is undertaking a training term or is allocated to complete a future training term within the practice of that GP Supervisor.
- GP Supervisors and Registrars should not provide informal treatment or prescriptions of medication to each other at any time, nor pressure each other to provide prescriptions for themselves, family members or friends.
- Training post staff, including other general practitioners within the practice, should not seek informal medical care or prescriptions for themselves or other persons from Registrars.
- Registrars should not enter therapeutic relationships with staff members in their training practice, including other general practitioners or their families. If such an arrangement is unavoidable, disclosure must be made to the training post, and activities undertaken only in the context of an appropriate medical consultation. In these circumstances the following are required:
- The Registrar must be able to contact their supervisor for advice if required and the patient should be aware this may be necessary.
- Appropriate documentation should occur as with any patient consultation.
- The registrar maintains confidentiality as with any patient consultation; this is discussed along with caveats to confidentiality at the beginning of the consultation.
- The GP Supervisor should be advised of the consultation and should carefully consider the circumstances of the consultation if it pertains to a Work Cover or TAC related matter.
This also applies within MCCC. Medically qualified staff employed by MCCC should not enter formal or informal therapeutic relationships with other MCCC medical or non-medical staff or staff in partner practices. In circumstances where this is unavoidable this must be referred to the DMET as soon as practicable.
Close Personal Relationships and/or Practice Ownership
- Where there is a close personal relationship between a GP supervisor and a registrar, the registrar is strongly advised not to train at that practice. Conflicts can arise in these settings and it is in the registrar’s best interest to not work in a practice where they have such a close personal relationship.
- Registrars are not permitted to train in a practice where they are full or part practice owners due to the ongoing conflict of interest this poses.
- Training placements where there is a pre-existing personal relationship MAY be considered for Term 3/ Term 4 (ESP) providing:
- There is an independent on-site supervisor approved by relevant RHE and an appropriate plan for alternative supervision for supervisor planned or unplanned leave or if they cease to work in the practice.
- A written employment contract is in place that is equivalent to other registrar contracts
- The registrar does not have a pre-existing close personal relationship with a full or part owner of the post.
5. Procedure
Close Personal Relationships
- If there is any type of close personal relationship between a registrar and a practice at which they wish to train, the registrar and the practice must disclose this to the relevant RHE. This must be done in writing at least 4 weeks prior to the start of the practice match process.
- The RHE will discuss the pre-existing relationship with the DMET, based on the principles outlined above.
- The registrar and the practice will be notified by the RHE of the outcome of the discussion, at least one week prior to the practice placement process.
- These guidelines are applicable even when the registrar considers the above principles have been met for employment in a prospective training post. The application for consideration must address the issues described above in detail and is applicable to all levels of registrar training.
- Where there is a close personal relationship between non-medical members of the supervision team (registered nurse, allied health or practice manager), or non-supervising GPs in the practice, the registrar should declare this to the RHE prior to seeking placement at that practice as outlined above.
Therapeutic relationships
- In the event of an emergency requiring a GPR, GPS or ME to provide treatment for each other, the incident should be disclosed to the Director of Medical Education and Training (DMET) who will review the episode, provide support and debriefing if required and consider other issues regarding the GPR placement.
- Where a medically qualified staff member has a pre-existing therapeutic relationship with another MCCC staff member, MCCC registrar or GP Supervisor in a partner practice, the potential working relationship between these two persons should be reviewed and discussed with the DMET where a decision will be made after considering the individual circumstances involved.
6. Document history
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Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
Rural Relocation Reimbursement to Priority Placement Practices
Last update: March 2020
Relevant resources
2020 MCCC Registrar Placement Guide
FNF 005 Rural Relocation Reimbursement to Priority Placements Claim Form
1. Purpose
MCCC provides rural relocation support to registrars if they satisfy the requirements outlined in this policy. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance on eligibility and the procedure for the application process.
2. Scope
This policy and procedure are applicable to all registrars in their core training terms, where Murray City Country Coast GP Training (MCCC) is the host Regional Training Organisation (RTO).
This policy supersedes all previous policies and is applicable to Priority Practice Placements commencing 2020 onward.
3. Policy
MCCC provides a once-only relocation support payment of up to $1,000 to registrars relocating to commence training in an identified rural Priority Placement practice that was matched during the Placement process.
Eligibility:
- Rural relocation support is available to MCCC registrars training in their core GP terms, in identified rural Priority Placement practices.
- The reimbursement is only available when a registrar is matched and commences work in one of the priority practices advertised in the year the placement process pertained to.
- Claims will only be considered if lodged by 31st October in the year the expense is incurred.
- No items being claimed have previously been claimed by another registrar. Eg. registrar’s partner.
Reimbursement criteria:
Registrars who are eligible may claim the following (up to the funding cap):
- Travel and accommodation to source permanent accommodation to undertake the approved Priority Placement.
- Airfares or mileage for up to two return trips to the Priority Placement destination and from the originating destination (airfares to alternate destinations are not supported). Mileage at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) cents per kilometre rate as published at the time incurred.
- Removalist fees.
- Trailer or self-move vehicle hire fees.
- Disconnection and reconnection fees for utilities (electricity, gas, landline, internet).
Exclusions:
MCCC does not support the following:
- relocation that was not necessitated by the Registrar Placement process.
- costs within or into a General Pathway region.
- items that would be reasonably deemed a ‘cost of living’ e.g. rent, mortgage payments, weekly internet or phone payments, utility bill, etc.
- items that are considered an asset, i.e. furniture, trailers, kitchen appliances or other portable items.
4. Procedure
- Registrars must complete the appropriate Registrar Claim form – Rural Relocation to Priority Placements and forward to their Registrar Education and Practice Support Co-ordinator (REAPS) for approval.
- All relevant receipts/tax invoices should accompany the claim form. Registrars may be required to provide additional information to substantiate the claim, if the expenditure is unclear.
- Claims will only be processed following the commencement of the applicable term and upon receipt of a completed claim form, supporting evidence and, where required, evidence of prior approval.
- Claims are to be submitted as soon as possible after the expense is incurred and no later than 31st October in the year the expense is incurred.
5. Document history
Version |
Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
2.0 |
Amalgamated Registrar Educational Support and Relocation Reimbursement Payments Policies/Procedures |
3.0 |
Moved education financial support information to a new policy (ED 011) |
4.0 |
Funding changed to only apply to Priority Placement practices. |
Registrar Extended Skills Post Application Policy and Procedure
Last updated: August 2018
Relevant resources
EDF 004 Registrar Extended Skills Post Application
TRF 018 Appeals Form
TR 001 Complaints Policy and Procedure
TR 018 Appeals Policy and Procedure
RACGP Accreditation of overseas posts
1. Purpose
This procedure provides information and guidance on the application process to undertake an Extended Skills Post (ESP) (not including GPT4 terms) with Murray City Country Coast GP Training (MCCC).
General practice vocational training with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is currently a three-year program consisting of twelve months in hospital posts, eighteen months in general practice and six months in an ESP. The six months of extended skills can be spent in (a) a general practice or (b) a post shown to be relevant to general practice, which improves skills and is of demonstrable or potential benefit to patients. The ESP must be accredited and have a nominated supervisor and a documented teaching and learning plan.
MCCC registrars are required to complete twelve months in general practice prior to commencing an ESP.
Exceptions to this may include applications for hospital-based ESPs, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis and only in circumstances where the experience and educational opportunities offered are consistent with the registrar’s learning needs such as the Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (DRANZCOG) and Diploma of Palliative Care. Posts that would not be consistent with this are those where the registrar has already developed a skill set, e.g. a registrar that has spent a number of hospital terms in a particular discipline e.g. emergency medicine and then wishes to complete another term in emergency medicine. Hospital terms must be completed either prior to commencing in a general practice term or at the completion of 12 months in general practice.
Only in extenuating circumstances can an ESP be done following the completion of 6 months in general practice as this will have a significant impact on participation and completion of the mandatory out of practice education provided by MCCC.
All applications must be prospectively approved by the Regional Head of Education (RHE) and the Director of Medical Education and Training (DMET). Applications for ES posts must be lodged at least three months prior to commencement of the placement. Recognition of prior learning will not be given for these posts except in exceptional circumstances (Please see below).
2. Scope
This document applies to Australia General Practice Training program (AGPT) registrars on the RACGP Fellowship Pathway with MCCC. It is not applicable to registrars wishing to apply for Advanced Rural Skills Training (ARST) or Advanced Skills Training (AST) posts.
3. Procedure
Extended Skills Posts (Excluding GPT4 terms)
- Prior to accepting an ES position, the registrar must ensure the post is RACGP training post accredited through written contact with the regional Registrar Education and Practice Support (REAPS) Coordinator, or designated person, a minimum of three months prior to the commencement of the term. It is recommended that registrars commence the process well before this minimum time if possible. (Refer Appendix A.)
- Note that approval to work in an ESP is not automatic, even if the post is accredited. The applicant must demonstrate the objectives, including personal learning needs, of undertaking a particular post at a particular time in training, in the learning plan.
For an Extended Skills Post already accredited:
- Once notified that a post is accredited, the ESP application form, learning plan, and a copy of the position description must be lodged with the regional REAPS Coordinator. The ESP application form is available on the MCCC website.
- The registrar will be notified in writing by the REAPS Coordinator of the final decision within twelve working days of receipt of the application. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar’s folder in Pivotal.
For an Extended Skills Post not already accredited:
- Approval of the registrar’s learning objectives by the RHE will be required prior to the post being accredited. The REAPS Coordinator will notify the registrar in writing of the decision within twelve working days of receipt of this information. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar Pivotal folder.
- The REAPS Coordinator (or delegate) will also notify the registrar in writing of the accreditation status of the post. If the post is not accredited, an accreditation application form will be forwarded to the training post by the REAPS Coordinator.
- Following approval of the learning objectives, the registrar will need to submit the ESP application form with a position description and learning plan pro forma to the RHE for approval prior to accreditation of the post.
- Once the registrar’s ESP application and supporting position description and learning plan is approved, the post and prospective supervisor must complete the MCCC accreditation forms and return to the REAPS Coordinator within two weeks.
- The training post will be subsequently contacted within two working days of receipt of the application to arrange an accreditation visit if this is required.
- MCCC’s regional accreditation panel will review the training post accreditation report written by the ME who performed the visit, and, if RACGP Standards and MCCC requirements are met, recommendation will be made to the RACGP regarding accreditation of the post.
- The applicant and the post will be notified by email within one working day of MCCC’s decision. A formal letter will be sent the following week.
- This process should be completed four weeks of the commencement at the placement.
Recognition of Prior Learning for an Extended Skills Post
- Recognition of prior learning will not be given for these posts except in exceptional circumstances and only for the Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Diploma of Palliative Care.
- Approval is not automatic, and the applicant must demonstrate the objectives, including personal learning needs, of undertaking the post at a particular time in training, in the learning plan.
- The ESP application form, learning plan, and a copy of the position description must be lodged with the regional REAPS Coordinator. The ESP application form is available on the MCCC website.
- The REAPS Coordinator (or delegate) will also notify the registrar in writing of the accreditation status of the post.
- If the post is an accredited post, the registrar will be notified in writing by the REAPS Coordinator of the final decision within twelve working days of receipt of the application. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar’s folder in Pivotal.
- If the post is not accredited, an accreditation application form will be forwarded to the training post by the REAPS Coordinator. The post and prospective supervisor must complete the MCCC accreditation forms and return to the REAPS Coordinator within two weeks.
- The training post will be subsequently contacted within two working days of receipt of the application to arrange an accreditation visit if this is required.
- MCCC’s regional accreditation panel will review the training post accreditation application, and, if RACGP Standards and MCCC requirements are met, recommendation will be made to the RACGP regarding accreditation of the post.
- The applicant and the post will be notified by email within one working day of MCCC’s decision. A formal letter will be sent the following week.
Overseas Extended Skills Posts:
Registrars seeking to undertake ESPs or optional Advanced Rural Skills Training posts in an overseas setting must complete an application form, available from the RACGP. All overseas posts must be prospectively approved by the RACGP Censor in Chief and then sent to the DMET for approval. Registrars should be aware that this may be a lengthy process.
Appeals Process:
Where a registrar disagrees with the decision regarding an ESP, it can be appealed through MCCC’s TR 001 Complaints Policy and Procedure. If the registrar is unsatisfied with the result, an appeal can be lodged via an application TRF 128 Appeals form. Further to this through the RACGP state censor.
Doctors in Secondary Schools Program
Last updated: September 2018
Relevant resources
ED 022 Training Post and Supervisor Accreditation Procedure: New Training Post (including Extended Skills Posts)
1. Purpose
To ensure ongoing quality of training, physical and emotional safety and appropriate supervisor support for all registrars participating in the program, and optimum outcomes for the student patients.
2. Scope
This procedure document applies to all accredited supervisors and training posts and their registrars, and all MCCC staff involved in the Doctors in Secondary Schools Program.
3. Procedure
- The school consulting room is not regarded as a branch practice so is not required to be accredited against RACGP/ACRRM Standards.
- Registrars participating in this program must be at level GPT3/4 or have significant experience with adolescent mental health (as deemed and approved by the designated RHE).
- The participation of the registrar in the program is completely voluntary and he/she may decline to undertake this work at any time prior to or during the term without any pressure or penalty from the practice.
- The GP supervisor must be very familiar with the program and the clinical scenarios that the registrar is likely to encounter at the school where they will work.
- The GP supervisor will provide a thorough orientation to the role of a Doctor in Secondary Schools Program at the commencement of the term and an on-site orientation at the school when the registrar commences treating student patients.
- The school will provide a room suitable for medical consultations. As there will not be on-site supervision, the registrar needs to have telephone access and the supervisor must be able to be contacted whenever the registrar is working in a school clinic. If necessary, the supervisor may need to attend the clinic to assist the registrar if needed.
- Where the GP supervisor is on leave, an accredited additional supervisor must be available to provide supervision for the registrar as outlined above.
- Student patient booking numbers must comply with RACGP Standards for Training.
- The supervisor needs to ensure the school has a registrar safety plan and the physical and emotional safety of the registrar is prioritised.
Other requirements
All participating registrars must have a “Working with Children Check.”
4. History document
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Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
Registrar Extended Skills Post (ESP) Expression of Interest Policy and Procedure
Last updated: August 2021
Relevant resources
EDF 004 Extended Skills Post Expression of Interest
TRF 018 Appeals Form
TR 001 Complaints Policy and Procedure
TR 018 Appeals Policy and Procedure
RACGP approval of overseas extended skills training posts for GP Registrars in the ADF
RACGP approval of overseas extended skills training posts for GP Registrars in the ADF
RACGP Accreditation of overseas posts
1. Purpose
This procedure provides information and guidance on the application process to undertake an Extended Skills Post (ESP) (not including GPT4 terms) with Murray City Country Coast GP Training (MCCC).
2. Scope
This document applies to Australia General Practice Training program (AGPT) registrars on the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Fellowship Pathway with MCCC. It is not applicable to registrars wishing to apply for Advanced Rural Skills Training (ARST) or Advanced Skills Training (AST) posts.
3. Policy
General practice vocational training with the RACGP is currently a three-year program consisting of twelve months in hospital posts, eighteen months in general practice and six months in an ESP.
The six months of extended skills can be spent in (a) a general practice or (b) a post shown to be relevant to general practice, which improves skills and is of demonstrable or potential benefit to patients.
The ESP must be accredited and have a nominated supervisor and a documented teaching and learning plan.
MCCC registrars are advised, that in many cases, it is recommended that they complete twelve months in general practice prior to commencing an ESP. This will depend on the post and can be discussed prior to submitting an expression of interest.
Only in extenuating circumstances can an ESP be done following the completion of 6 months in general practice as this will have a significant impact on participation and completion of the mandatory out of practice education provided by MCCC.
Registrars can apply for recognition of prior learning of an ESP in line with RACGP Policy. Please note that no more than 12 months of RPL can be applied for. The ESP must be in line with the registrars learning needs and will only be approved in exceptional circumstances. *
Extended skills training may be made up of a single post or a combination of posts and there are minimum weekly working hours for extended skills terms. Please refer to the RACGP policy for further information. **
All applications must be prospectively approved by the Regional Head of Education (RHE) or their delegate, and where necessary, the Director of Medical Education and Training (DMET).
Expressions of interest must be lodged in a timely manner so that preapproval and post accreditation, where necessary, can be completed prior to the relevant placement process.
Note that approval to work in an ESP is not automatic, even if the post is accredited. The applicant must demonstrate the objectives, including personal learning needs, of undertaking a particular post at a particular time in training, in the learning plan.
4. Procedure
Registrars Interested in an Extended Skills Post
Registrars interested in ESP’s should refer to the ESP page on the MCCC website. All posts on the MCCC website are typically approved, accredited posts. However, it is prudent to check the accreditation status of the post with your regional Registrar Education and Practice Support (REAPS) Coordinator prior to sending in an Expression of Interest form.
If you wish to discuss the post prior to placing an Expression of Interest, then please contact your regional REAPS Coordinator and/or Regional Head of Education (RHE).
All applications must be prospectively approved by the RHE and, where necessary, the Director of Medical Education and Training (DMET). This is to occur prior to applying for any position as approval to work in an ESP is not automatic, even if the post is accredited.
Expression of Interest: Extended Skills Posts accredited by MCCC.
The registrar will contact any potentially suitable post opportunities directly to determine suitability, confirm availability and obtain a copy of the position description.
The registrar completes an Expression of Interest (EDF 004), which includes the learning plan, to undertake an ES post and submits this to the REAPS Coordinator, along with a position description. The REAPS will in turn seek necessary approvals from the RHE, or their delegate, for approval.
Expressions of interest must be lodged at least two months prior to the interview process for that post.
The REAPS Coordinator confirms the post remains accredited and will notify the registrar if there are any issues with the accreditation status.
The REAPS Coordinator will liaise with the RHE, or their delegate, to confirm approval of the registrars learning objectives for the ESP.
The registrar will be notified by the REAPS Coordinator in writing within 12 working days of submitting their application of whether their expression of interest has been approved. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar’s folder.
The registrar will then be eligible to apply for the post.
Upon receipt of an offer for the post and prior to acceptance the registrar will notify the REAPS Coordinator in writing. This may be via email.
Expressions of Interest: Extended Skills Post not accredited by MCCC:
There may be occasions when a registrar becomes aware of a post, that would meet their educational and learning needs and also would meet the needs of the community they work in, which is not accredited by MCCC.
The registrar may wish to discuss this post with the RHE prior to submitting an expression of interest application.
The registrar will contact any potentially suitable post opportunities directly to determine suitability, confirm availability and obtain a copy of the position description.
The registrar completes an Expression of Interest (EDF 004), which includes the learning plan, to undertake an ESP and submits this to the REAPS Coordinator, along with a position description to the RHE for approval.
Expressions of interest must be lodged at least three months prior to commencement of the interview for placement process to ensure that accreditation requirements can be met.
If the RHE, or delegate, approves the expression of interest, then the training post will be contacted within five working days of the approval of the expression of interest and the accreditation application will be sent.
The post is expected to return the completed paperwork within 15 working days of the receipt so accreditation visit, either face to face or virtual can be arranged by the ME delegated to complete the report.
The MCCC accreditation panel will review the training post application and the MCCC accreditation ME report. If RACGP Standards and MCCC requirements are met, the post will be accredited.
The registrar and post will be notified in writing by the REAPS Coordinator of whether the ESP is approved. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar’s folder.
The registrar will then be eligible to apply for the post.
Upon receipt of an offer for the post and prior to acceptance the registrar will notify the REAPS Coordinator in writing. This may be via email.
*Recognition of Prior Learning for an Extended Skills Post:
Recognition of prior learning will not be given for these posts except in exceptional circumstances and generally only for the Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Diploma of Palliative Care.
Approval is not automatic, and the applicant must demonstrate the objectives, including personal learning needs, of undertaking the post at a particular time in training, in the learning plan.
The Expression of Interest (EDF 004) form, which includes the learning plan, and a copy of the position description must be lodged with the regional REAPS Coordinator.
The REAPS Coordinator will liaise with the RHE, or their delegate, to confirm approval of the registrars learning objectives for the ESP.
The registrar will be notified by the REAPS Coordinator in writing within 12 working days of submitting their application of whether the ESP is approved. Reasons for the decision will be documented in the notification and in the registrar’s folder.
The Registrar will need to apply for Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) as outlined in the RACGP RPL policy. Approval of RPL is not automatic and is decided by the RACGP State Censor.
The Registrar will be notified once advice from the RACGP has been received.
**Combined Posts:
This is especially relevant in posts such as Rural Generalist Consolidation posts (also known as Consolidation of Skills) relevant to Fellowship in Advanced Rural General Practice (FARGP) registrars and MCCC’s Registrar Liaison Officer and Registrar Medical Educator positions. For further advice on these posts please contact the relevant regional REAPS/RHE.
Overseas Extended Skills Posts:
These are only available for Australian Defence Force (ADF) registrars and only after prior approval by the RACGP. Please contact the relevant regional REAPS/RHE for further advice.
5. Document history
Version |
Summary of changes |
1.0 |
First version |
2.0 |
Second version |
3.0 |
RPL section |
4.0 |
Express of interest |