| A Pathway to National Consistency |
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| Recent changes to the National Assessment Pathway (NAP) for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are causing some confusion at the moment. |
While changes are being bedded-down, RWAV is continuing to work with our IMGs to ensure little disruption as possible is experienced by applicants as they seek medical registration in Victoria.
So far, six RWAV nominated doctors are confirmed to sit the Applied Knowledge Test this month and a further 14 are expected to go through the process soon.
RWAV is working closely with Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Medical Practitioners Board of Victoria to clarify details around the changes to the various pathways towards registration.
Once the changes to the NAP have been agreed we will provide a full briefing to all Divisions and other interested parties.
Claire Austin
RWAV Chief Executive
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| Community Sustenance |
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RWAV is working on a project to develop new rural primary health care service models. The project, Sustainable Practices focuses on what is critical to maintaining sustainable communities and business operations. |
This means practice managers and general practitioners will benefit from educational tools and resources, and gain access to expert advice when retirement, relocation or a reduction in practice hours is planned.
The project that is being undertaken in collaboration with the Rural Divisions is funded by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources and the Victorian Department of Regional and Rural Development and will increase the sustainability of general practice for rural communities.
Watch this space for more information on the regional workshops and how to access business advisory tools.
In the meantime if you would like to know more, contact Sharon Kosmina, General Manager Policy & Research.
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| No Fee! |
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Did you know that RWAV recruitment services are at no cost
to you?
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| As part of our recruitment service, we can list your vacancy on our website. Part of our process is to profile your vacancy, showcasing the practice and working environment.
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Our Camperdown vacancy demonstrates how we will profile your practice and the community.
We will also do all the paperwork (including medical registration) for the successful applicant and our migration specialist and relocation coordinator will assist too.
Do you need a doctor? Contact Bernie Heaton-Harris who will discuss the ways we can help you. |
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Survey Says!
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RWAV 2008 GP & Practice Surveys |
RWAV in partnership with the rural Divisions of General Practice will be conducting the annual rural GP and Practice surveys. All practices and GPs located in rural Victoria should receive their surveys late September/early October. The information collected by the surveys is critical to informing RWAV’s recruitment and support programs for rural doctors.
RWAV also uses the valuable information to advocate on behalf of rural general practices, in workforce planning and policy development.
The participation of rural practices and doctors is greatly appreciated and valued. If you have any queries regarding the survey please contact RWAV’s Research & Evaluation Analyst, Anne Giovanetti on (03) 9349 7800. |
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| Close the Gap |
From L to R: Jacki Lindsay Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Tina Waru RWAV & Tom Calma Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. |
As we know Indigenous health as compared to non-Indigenous has some major inequalities.
In Australia Indigenous life expectancies compared to non-Indigenous have a 17-year gap. |
In 2007 the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed to a partnership involving all levels of government to work with Indigenous communities to reduce health disparities.
Fast track to August 19, 2008 in Melbourne, when the Victorian government signed a Close the Gap ’statement of intent’ committing to help bridge the divide.
As members of the Close the Gap coalition VACCHO, GPV & RWAV are collaborating to improve Aboriginal health.
Tina Waru, RWAV’s Indigenous & Health Policy Manager recalls the Close the Gap signing.
“Standing among delegates, dignitaries and those who work for improved Indigenous health made me proud. It was a privilege and an honour to have witnessed and been part of such a significant event. The statement of intent demonstrates the critical need for commitment to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people.
"Although there is still a long way to go, the ’statement of intent’ has opened the doors for progress and laid the foundations for growth and development in Aboriginal health," said Tina. |
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| Around the World with Steve Axiotis |
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| RWAV’s Candidate Recruitment Coordinator, Steve Axiotis uses a personalised approach to work for the benefit of rural communities and medical professionals. |
Steve provides an individually managed recruitment service for Australian Trained Doctors and International Medical Graduates who are seeking challenges, change and great lifestyle opportunities.
Dealing with people around the world, Steve loves matching the professional and personal desires of GPs to practices throughout provincial Victoria.
If you want to live and work in a fantastic environment, playing an integral role in people’s lives then contact Steve. |
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| RWAV at WONCA |
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| RWAV is developing a Sustainable Practice Index to measure Victorian rural general practices that will identify practices at risk. |
Co-author and RWAV CEO, Claire Austin is concerned the current assessment of GP shortages is unsustainable.
"The formula for determining Districts of Workforce Shortages is based only on GP to population ratios and doesn’t consider needs of a community. This puts a strain on rural health service delivery and does not meet the future needs of rural health populations," Claire said.
Sharon Kosmina who co-authored the index with Claire will provide an overview of its development, the key criteria used, methodological issues and data sources at Wonca’s Asia Pacific Regional Conference in October.
"Changing the focus to incorporate community needs and health status will result in a sustained health workforce, the index will identify practices at risk and those requiring assistance," Claire said.
For Wonca information go to
www.wonca2008.com |
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| Supporting our Rural Communities - Chris Logan |
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Part of RWAV’s support to Divisions is provided through our Workforce Development Managers who focus on the health needs of regions. |
Chris’ previous experience as a Division Workforce Officer provides an even greater understanding to the needs of the Grampians region.
As an area Manager for seven years Chris has excellent knowledge of community issues and works to meet the needs of rural practice.
Chris is a valuable resource to GPs and is constantly catching up with doctors in his region. To see how Chris can support your practice, email or call him on 0438 573 259. |
