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All OMPs who provide GP services in rural and remote areas of Australia that are classified as RRMA (Rural Remote and Metropolitan Areas) 4-7 may be eligible for the Program.
This includes OMPs who are:
- Non-VR GPs
- Overseas Trained Doctors
- Temporary Resident Doctors
- Special Interest Practitioners who wish to specialise in General Practice
- Doctors providing GP services in RRMA 4-7 through the Rural Locum Relief Programs and the State Overseas Trained Doctors (SOTD) initiative.
Salaried Doctors, who are eligible to obtain a provider number and attract Medicare benefits for their services; and who relocate or provide ongoing services in rural or remote Australia may also be eligible for the Program.
Temporary Resident Doctors (TRDs) who are meeting ‘short-term’ workforce needs in rural and remote communities may take part in the Program, however they must express an interest in undertaking alternative pathways in the event they become permanent residents.
Overseas Trained Doctors (OTDs) must fulfil immigration and State or Territory medical board requirements to be eligible for the Program.
OMPs who are currently undertaking RACGP training programs already access the higher Medicare rebate for the purpose of training placements. Should they provide services outside their placements, in RRMA 4-7, they may be eligible for the Program. OMPs who withdraw or are unsuccessful in completing the RACGP training programs may be eligible if they provide GP services in RRMA categories 4-7 and register in the Program. However, registration in the Program includes an Expression of Interest in undertaking an alternative pathway to vocational recognition. It is anticipated that these alternative pathways will be equivalent to the current pathway and should not be seen as a 'fast-track' or easier route to recognition. For further information on alternative pathways see Section 5.
Medical Graduates who are not eligible to attract Medicare Benefits except via the Rural Locum Relief Program, the Queensland Rural Locum Relief Program, the After-Hours Medical Deputising Program can enter this program if providing ongoing services in RRMA categories 4-7.
It is important to note that the Rural OMPs Program does not reduce or waive any provider number restriction that would apply to a doctor practising in Australia.
Any OMPs moving to a rural area to provide GP services should contact their local Rural Workforce Agency or call the Rural OMPs Helpline on 1800 667 677. |
