Healthcare Shortages: A Pressing Concern
New Zealand has long been recognised for its breathtaking landscapes, excellent quality of life, and friendly communities. However, beyond the scenic allure, the country’s healthcare system is currently grappling with an urgent demand for skilled professionals, particularly General Practitioners (GPs) and Radiologists. This demand is fuelled by several key factors, including an ageing population, healthcare staff shortages, and evolving healthcare needs.
For healthcare professionals in looking for new opportunities and a fresh start, New Zealand presents a compelling option. As medical imaging plays an increasingly critical role in modern healthcare, the demand for Radiologists has skyrocketed. However, with a limited number of trained specialists in the field, radiology wait times in certain regions have become a significant issue, impacting patient care and diagnosis timelines.
Ageing Population and Rising Healthcare Demands
According to Statistics New Zealand, in 2022, 1 in every 6 people in New Zealand were in these older age groups. In 2028, 1 in 5 people in the population will be 65+ years. This ageing demographic requires more medical services, especially in primary care and diagnostic fields like radiology, leading to higher demand for GPs and Radiologists who can manage complex health issues, chronic diseases, and provide timely diagnoses.
As these demands continue to rise, the New Zealand government has prioritised healthcare, making it a favourable environment for international medical professionals looking to make a meaningful difference in their careers.
Attracting Skilled Professionals
Recognising the urgency of the situation, New Zealand has been actively recruiting skilled medical professionals from abroad, especially from countries like the UK where the training standards are comparable. To attract talent, the government has introduced several incentives:
- Streamlined immigration pathways: Doctors and medical professionals are on skilled migrant lists, which allows for fast-tracked visa processing and a smoother transition.
- Higher salaries for GPs and Radiologists and support for relocation, more balanced work-life balance, flexible working conditions, and access to stunning nature, make it highly attractive.
Doctor Market Trends
With healthcare systems around the world facing pressures, New Zealand’s targeted approach to attracting international talent has created a prime opportunity for UK GPs and Radiologists seeking change.
- Growing number of vacancies: More positions are being created and the opportunity for long-term, stable employment is strong.
- Focus on innovation: New Zealand’s healthcare system is investing in modernising medical technology, particularly in radiology, where AI and advanced imaging techniques are being embraced.
- Rural healthcare focus: The government is offering attractive packages and incentives for doctors willing to practice in more remote areas.
For healthcare professionals tired of the increasing pressures of the NHS, New Zealand offers a refreshing balance of rewarding work and a better quality of life.
How Transition Medical is Leading the Way
We recognise relocating for work is a significant decision, and we pride ourselves on making that transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team has extensive experience in connecting UK GPs and Radiologists with GP opportunities or Radiology jobs in New Zealand’s healthcare system, offering:
Personalised recruitment services: We take the time to understand your unique needs and career goals, ensuring the right match with healthcare providers in New Zealand.
End-to-end support: From visa applications and medical registration to finding the perfect role, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.
Trusted network: Following our visit earlier this year visiting the GP practices to continue to build our relationships, we are able to give you access to some of the best opportunities in the country.
If you’re ready for a change and want to explore new horizons, Transition Medical is here to help guide you through the process with expert advice and dedicated support.
Reach out to Transition Medical today and take the first step toward an exciting new chapter in your medical career!
Category: Blog
AHPRA New Fast Track Pathway
When Will the New AHPRA Pathway Be Released?
The Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA) announced in April this year that they would be introducing a new fast-track registration process for internationally trained specialists like GPs, anaesthetists, obstetricians, and psychiatrists.
There has been a news release in September from AHPRA stating that this new pathway, initially prioritising GPs, is on track to open in October, however subject to Ministerial approval.
This is a potentially exciting initiative which aims to address healthcare shortages by recognising and validating overseas qualifications more quickly, allowing these skilled professionals to start contributing to Australian healthcare sooner.
What Does This Mean for GPs?
It’s difficult to predict what this will mean for GPs and how this may change the current pathway to FRACGP specialist registration however it is anticipated that it should be faster and (hopefully) a cheaper pathway.
It is likely that you will continue to have the requirement to verify documents via the AMC verification process however it will remove the need for the RACGP PEP program and its associated costs. This should then also streamline the Medicare provider number application reducing the processing time.
Until the pathway has been released, we don’t have any further information to share however Transition Medical will be one of the first to know and share how this will affect you.
Should I Wait For the New AHPRA Fast Track Pathway or Apply Now?
This depends on your circumstances and timeframes. If you are eager to get to Australia asap, then I would suggest to continue with current RACGP PEP pathway. Until the new fast track pathway has been approved by Ministers there is no set date for release. There is the possibility that this can be delayed.
If you have time to wait until the end of October then we will know what this means and how to proceed.
Background to the fast track pathway
The new AHPRA fast track pathway is being released in line with recommendations from the Kruk Review into health practitioner regulatory settings which was published in December 2023. The report criticised the lengthy and complex process for overseas trained doctors to enter Australia and published recommendations.
On the back of this report, AHPRA removed the need for overseas trained doctors to undergo an in person identity check in December 2023, allowing GPs to apply for all their paperwork whilst overseas and not wait to start work once they had arrived.
Further Reading
Your RACGP PEP Specialist Stream Journey Explained
Your PEP Specialist Pathway Journey
Introduction
We often get asked what’s the next part of the journey, after you have applied and completed your PEP Specialist Stream comparability assessment.
The outcome of the comparability assessment will determine your eligibility for entry and also which stream (Substantially comparable or Partially Comparable) you can undertake. In this blog we’ll focus specifically on your Substantially comparable stream journey, from the day you start working in your approved practice to the day you attain Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP).
Supervision and Membership Requirements
Throughout the program, you must:
• Work under supervision.
• Maintain your Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) medical registration.
• Remain a financial member of RACGP until you are admitted to Fellowship.
You will be well supported, your supervisor is a seasoned specialist GP approved by the MBA to provide supervision during your program. They play a crucial role in guiding you through your practice.
Upon starting the program, you will be assigned a Medical Educator (ME). MEs are RACGP staff members who are also experienced GPs with extensive educational and practical knowledge. They mentor and support your educational needs, ensuring you progress smoothly through the PEP SP. Regular meetings with your ME will be scheduled throughout your program.
During your induction, you will also get the opportunity to complete a practice workplace based assessment (a practice Clinical Case Analysis or CCA . This will be used later in the training program to assess your competence against the standards set for a specialist GP at the point of admission to Fellowship.
During your training you must meet the below requirements:
- Supervised Practice
- Educational Activities
- Workplace-Based Assessments
These note a full list of requirements to be fulfilled before you can apply for Fellowship can be found here
Supervised Practice
Before you start on the PC stream, RACGP will recommend the level of supervision you need while working in your approved practice. This recommendation will be based on your comparability assessment results and the context of your intended practice. Once you are 3 months into the program, you will sit with your supervisor and complete a Work Performance Report. This reviews performance criteria and highlights areas you have performed well in and areas for development.
Educational Activities
Educational activities include compulsory and optional tasks designed to ease your transition into Australian general practice.
Workplace Based Assessments
These help to assess your competence and include areas such as clinical information-gathering and interpretation,
making a diagnosis, decision-making and reasoning, clinical management and therapeutic reasoning. You will complete these while completing your training program.
WBAs comprise the following components:
Multi-source feedback – Used to collate feedback from colleagues and patients on your interpersonal and professional behaviour, development and clinical skills.
Clinical assessment – Once you have settled and spent at least 3 months in your new practice, you will complete a clinical assessment via videoconferencing and be made up of two components: direct observations and clinical case analyses (CCAs). The direct observations and CCAs will be conducted by three independent assessors, separate to your mentor ME.
Once you have completed the WBAs you will be considered for entry of admission to Fellowship.
What Do GPs Earn in New Zealand?
GP Salary New Zealand
If you’re thinking about working as a GP in New Zealand, then you are likely to be attracted by a beautiful country offering beaches, nature, outdoor adventures plus national parks for walking and biking.
You may also be thinking about the work – life balance which GPs in New Zealand enjoy and want to find out more about what life is like. One of the questions we’re often asked, is what the salary is for GPs in New Zealand. We will address these and answer your questions below.
A full time working week in New Zealand is 40 hours per week, over 5 days (10 sessions). In reality however, most GPs don’t work full time. The majority of the contracts we see are 32 hours per week which allows for a day off in the week although there is generally scope to work up to 10 sessions if you wish. The pace of work is also more relaxed with standard appointment times of 15 minutes. You can work fewer hours, however on a temporary work visa, the minimum number of hours required is 30 per week.
GP salaries in New Zealand can be stated as an hourly rate or an annual salary. GP income is around $200K – $220K for a full time position of 40 hours per week. This would be pro-rata for less than 10 sessions.
The current average GP Salary in New Zealand is $117.38 NZD per hour.
Contracts are employment agreements which also include paid annual leave and sick leave plus other benefits such as paid medical indemnity insurance, registration fees and sometimes relocation assistance.
How Do NZ Salaries Compare with the UK?
How your NZ GP income compares will depend on the type of practise in the UK. Salaried GPs may find their income slightly more or at least comparable. If however you are in a successful GP Partnership or busy doing Locum or Out of hours shifts, you may find income to be lower.
Money however, is not everything, and what attracts GPs to New Zealand is the lifestyle. It offers a relaxed pace of life, amazing (free!) outdoor and indoor activities for the family, and a well run healthcare system where GPs are looked after.
We have placed many doctors in New Zealand who find the people very friendly and life much more relaxed. If you would like to find out more about working in New Zealand please do get in touch with our team!
Further Reading
GP Recruitment How we can support a move to NZ
What is life like for GPs in New Zealand
Considering Moving to Australia as a GP? Your FAQs Answered Here
If you’re a GP thinking about relocating to Australia, you may have many questions. This may be early stages of thinking or you might be ready to move and want to find out more.
Here we answer your most frequent questions regarding working as a GP in Australia
Where can I work? – All overseas trained GPs are required to work in an areas which is Distribution Priority Area (DPA). This is in place for the first 10 years of your medical registration and you may hear it as your ’10 year moratorium.’
All the GP jobs on our website are suitable for you to apply. The areas where we find jobs are around Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane, Tasmania, the Central Coast and regional cities such as Busselton, Broome and Rockhampton. Check out the workforce locator map here to check the geographical classification of any location in Australia.
How long are the contracts? – Generally 2 years, some more rural practices may consider 12 months.
How long does the paperwork take? – Approximately 9 months from job acceptance to visa approval
Do I have to work under supervision? Yes initially but just for 6 months if you’re substantially comparable. A period of self -reflection, peer review and clinical case analysis. There are no exams if you are substantially comparable.
Will my earnings be affected during supervision? – No, in fact while completing the supervision period, you will have access to the full Medicare rebate (A1 rates) This means you bill the same as a vocationally recognised GP whilst working towards FRACGP.
What is the Practice Experience Program (PEP) Specialist Stream? It provides a pathway for international medical graduates with overseas specialist qualifications to gain Fellowship with the RACGP. Please visit the PEP Specialist Stream webpage for more details.
Will I still get specialist registration? Yes once all Fellowship requirements have been met.
What is WBA? – Workplace Based Assessment- completed approximately 6 months from commencing employment, provides a framework for evaluating performance and progress in practice.
What’s does the PEP pathway to Fellowship look like?
Do I need to sit exams on the PEP Pathway?
After satisfactorily completing all of the program requirements, substantially comparable participants will be eligible to apply for FRACGP. Partially comparable participants are eligible to enrol in the Fellowship exams after completing the WBA requirements.
If you are considering a move or just want to chat through options we have a dedicated team who will guide you through every step of the whole process. Visit our latest GP jobs or contact us directly for more information.
Further Reading
Find out more about why Perth is so popular
Changes to RACGP process
The RACGP process is changing.
We have recently been made aware of some changes happening within the RACGP PEP stream. This application is the main pathway for GPs to be able to gain specialist recognition with the Medical Board (AHPRA) in Australia.
The changes will affect the Practice Experience Program Specialist Pathway (PEP) and take effect from the 1st July 2024. The changes will be applicable to both substantially and partially comparable outcomes.
What are the RACGP PEP changes?
The good news is a higher percentage of GPs will be recognised as substantially comparable and the requirements for continuing professional development (CPD) will be simplified. There will be some administrative changes to enable the upload process to be much smoother.
Here is the bad news, unfortunately the process will be more expensive. This will affect GPs going through the process, not starting work in Australia before the 1st December 2024 and those yet to apply.
The program fee will be increased from $8000 to $11,900. This fee is paid during your registration process after your visa has been approved. There will be an additional fee of $300 per year which is paid whilst you are going through your supervision period.
Although, hopefully the changes coming in will make the process more streamlined, an additional cost of $3,9000 is not ideal in an already expensive move.
It is however a one-off fee, and once you are established in Australia, you will have the opportunity to make a much higher income than in the UK so offsetting some of this expense. Many practices also offer relocation assistance to help with some of the costs.
As always, our services are free of charge. We will manage the process for you and provide expert expertise and advice. We are always able to provide guidance and reassurance along the way. To hear how some of our GPs have settled and some video testimonials on our service, take a look at our testimonials page.
If you need any help in your move or want to find out more about how these changes affect you, please do get in touch for more information.
GP Recruitment NZ – GP Support
GP Recruitment New Zealand
Moving to NZ as a GP is something you’ve probably been thinking about for some time and wondering when is the right time to make the move. Living and working down under has many benefits – a wonderful work / life balance, amazing scenery and outdoor activities and of course much more time with the family.
Kirsty and Emma have just returned from a wonderful trip to New Zealand, meeting practices and seeing first hand the benefits of working as a GP in New Zealand.
UK trained GPs are still very much in demand in New Zealand, and we have lots of fabulous GP jobs to choose from across both the north and south island.
Relocating to New Zealand as a GP can be a daunting process so you want to make sure you have the right team behind you to support you all the way.
Why Choose Transition Medical?
Our team will support you through the entire process from initial arranging of interviews and advice on contracts through to managing your medical registration and visa application.
It’s a reasonably complex and time consuming process where the advice and support we can provide is invaluable. Once we have secured you your dream job, the next step is to apply to the Medical Council of New Zealand.
The MCNZ have strict English language requirements, comparability and referencing requirements. We will advise on which Registration pathway is most appropriate for your experience, qualifications and long-term (or short term) goals for working in New Zealand.
In general, the MCNZ recognise GP training from the UK and Ireland. Unlike Australia, it doesn’t matter if you don’t have the MRCGP qualification making it easier to find a post if you don’t have it. If you haven’t completed your GP training in the UK or Ireland then you are eligible if you have a minimum of 33 months experience from a comparable country.
As part of our expert GP Recruitment team, we have Licenced Immigration Advisors who will advise on the most appropriate visa for you and your family and ensure this application is processed seamlessly.
Once your visa has been approved, we will support you in arranging Professional Indemnity Insurance, setting up new bank accounts, arranging your final Medical Council interview and much more.
Once in New Zealand, you will be allocated a Supervisor within the practice who will be on hand to ensure your smooth transition into practice. All new doctors entering New Zealand have this requirement and find it extremely useful whilst getting to grips with the new healthcare system.
We have many years experience finding GPs jobs for GPs moving to New Zealand and managing all the paperwork associated. If you have any questions or wish to discuss your next steps don’t hesitate to get in touch today.
Further Reading:
What is life like for GPs in New Zealand
Hear what life is life for a GP who is working in Auckland
8 Reasons to GPs to move to New Zealand
How does the Cost of Living compare in New Zealand to the UK
GP Salary Australia: How Much Can You Earn in 2024?
You may be thinking about relocating to Australia and want to know more about your GP salary in Australia. Here we give you a 2024 breakdown of what your income could be.
GPs in Australia generally earn a good income and can afford a comfortable lifestyle. In the majority of cases, GPs relocating from the UK earn at least the same for doing fewer hours per week. One of our doctors has described working in Australia
‘Life in Australia – people are friendly, you see fewer patients and have longer appointment times for more pay.’
Click here to see Emma’s video testimonial about life as a GP in Australia.
Australia GP Salary 2024
Figures from a 2024 industry report, state that GPs average around $360 – $380K AUD. This figure reflects a full time role working more than 32 hours per week.
Your GP salary in Australia will be variable dependant on a number of factors including:
- The total hours you work
- The number of patients you see
- The percentage you receive
- How many weeks annual leave you take
- The complexity of the patient consultation
General practices in Australia operate as private businesses, either owned by a single GP, GP Partners or larger companies. The majority of practices operate as mixed billing where they see a mix of patients who are privately billed or bulk billed through Medicare.
Usually, patients who are under 16, over 65 and hold health cards are bulk billed and everyone else is private billed. The standard consultation fee for the practice will remain the same when the patient is bulk billed and may vary between practices when privately billed. Recent Medicare statistics report that in the year 2022 – 2023, 51.7% of patients are routinely bulk billed, 25.6% usually bulk billed, 12.2% sometimes bulk billed and 10.5% never bulk billed.
How much will I earn as a GP in Australia?
As we’ve discussed, the average income reported is around $360K per year. This figure will be dependent on the above factors and may be more or less dependent on the way you work. Some of our practices have GPs there earning more than $500K per year and some earning $300K to work a 3 day week. It’s up to you!
Please do get in touch with one of our team to find out more about your move to Australia.
Further Reading
The Advantages Of Using A Recruitment Agency
Are you a GP moving to Australia or New Zealand?
The prospect of practising 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 a recruitment agency such as 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 Relocation 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 GP 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. Read our GP testimonials to find out what our doctors who we’ve helped have found our services.
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
