Foreign doctors from three countries fast-tracked to treat Aussie patients

To address the shortage of medical personnel in Australia, the government is expediting the introduction of foreign doctors so that they can provide treatment to Australian patients as quickly as possible. This measure aims to alleviate pressure on the healthcare system and ensure that patients can receive the medical care they need in a timely manner.

Starting next Monday, doctors from the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand will be able to directly enter the Australian healthcare system through a new pathway. This pathway, approved by the federal government this month, allows these doctors to bypass assessment by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and apply directly to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for specialist registration.

However, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed concerns about this. They point out that one in five doctors from these countries have failed their tests in communication skills and professionalism, or require additional training. RACGP President Nicole Higgins believes that the government has taken a "rushed approach" that could endanger patient safety.

Higgins stated, "The Australian Health Minister and AHPRA have rushed through this policy in the week before it is implemented, despite significant risks, unanswered questions, and a lack of detail on how general practitioner qualifications will be assessed. We all hope it works as planned, but patient safety and doctor well-being cannot be guaranteed by hope alone, but rather by proper processes."

Health Minister Mark Butler insists that this reform will not lower Australia's strict safety standards. He assured patients that under the new pathway, doctors will still need to pass the same language and background criminal checks. In addition, they will also undergo six months of supervision during an adaptation period. Last year, a review conducted by retired public servant Robin Croke also urged the government to expedite the certification process for overseas doctors.