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Are you an overseas doctor moving to Australia? Are you curious about what you can expect from your new job as a GP?

As a recruitment agency, we often receive inquiries from doctors moving to Australia about what is expected of them in their new role. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the expectations of a GP in Australia and provide some useful information about the Australian healthcare system.

As a GP in Australia, you’ll be seeing an average of 4 patients per hour, so you’ll need to be prepared to work efficiently while still providing high-quality care. While you won’t be expected to have a special interests figured out straight away, you will be encouraged to develop them over time. General practice is a diverse field, and there are many areas in which you can specialize, from women’s health to mental health, skin cancer, and more. So, don’t be afraid to explore your interests and build your expertise.

It’s important to note that the concept of “full-time” in general practice is slightly different in Australia. The current job market expectations have landed on three and a half days a week being considered full-time. You may also be required to work weekends and public holidays, depending on your practice’s needs.

One of the most significant differences between general practice in Australia and other countries is the way doctors are reimbursed. In Australia, general practitioners are reimbursed through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), a publicly funded healthcare system that covers the cost of certain medical services. GPs must bill Medicare appropriately to ensure that they are reimbursed correctly, and they are expected to be knowledgeable about the MBS system however some practices will provide training. Practices also expect doctors to be proactive in identifying opportunities to bill for additional services that patients may need, such as chronic disease management plans and care plans for patients with mental health conditions as appropriate.

So, what can you expect when you start working in a general practice in Australia? You’ll be working in a team. General practice is a collaborative environment, and you’ll be working closely with nurses, allied health professionals, and other GPs to provide comprehensive care to your patients. You’ll also be working in a patient-centred environment, where the needs and preferences of the patient are prioritized.

Another key feature of general practice in Australia is the use of electronic health records (EHRs). Most practices use EHRs to record patient information and ensure that it’s accessible to other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care. You’ll need to be comfortable using EHRs and be prepared to spend some time learning how to navigate them effectively.

To sum it up, becoming a GP in Australia can be a fulfilling yet demanding journey, especially for overseas doctors who may need to adjust to the unique aspects of the Australian healthcare system. However, with persistence and an eagerness to learn, you can thrive in your role and make a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of your patients. Remember to keep up with the latest advancements in medical technology and treatment options, and always prioritize the well-being of your patients.

contact us here if you have any further questions.