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Ahpra considers independent review of overseas health practitioner settings

Michael Gorton AM, Jonathan Teh and Jacqui Wilson

A recent review was conducted by Robyn Kruk AO, into the regulatory arrangements for registration of overseas health practitioners wishing to practice in Australia. Ms Kruk is a former Director General of the New South Wales Department of Health, and was commissioned to conduct an independent review in relation to the regulatory arrangements by which overseas health practitioners can seek registration and practice in Australia.

The health workforce has obviously been under significant workforce pressure during and following Covid, and there is an identified immediate need to build Australia’s health workforce. In particular, substantial numbers of doctors and nurses are needed to fill places in health settings across the country.

In addition to health care, health practitioners are increasingly in demand in relation to aged care, disability and mental health.

Substantial reforms in these areas has been proposed in order to address skills shortages, speed up processes and adopt a more consistent approach.

The Kruk reform proposals have been provided to National Cabinet, representing Federal and State and Territory representatives. Amongst the key recommendations are:

  • Remove duplication and simplify processes for applications by overseas health practitioners.
  • Fast track applications from “trusted countries” where there is familiarity with the standards, processes and assessments in those jurisdictions, particularly for medical graduates and specialist doctors.
  • Provide better assessment and recognition of experience and skills, as criteria for selection.
  • Providing greater flexibility to demonstrate English language competency.
  • Review and enhance visa requirements.

The recommendations have particular implications for the specialist medical colleges who traditionally manage the processes for assessment and selection of specialist international medical graduates, seeking to enter the specialist medical workforce in Australia. The criticism had been made that these processes are not streamlined or adequately resourced, and that selection criteria amongst the specialities is unnecessarily inconsistent and varied.

These issues are now under consideration by Health Ministers and Ahpra, with the request for Ahpra and National Boards to “deliver a streamlined end to end registration system”. Options include expedite pathways for applicants from similar regulatory systems, and reaffirm the importance of patient safety as well has ensuring Australians can access timely and appropriate health services.

The work by Ms Kruk is continuing, with a further “final report” to be delivered later this year.

How we can help

For further information, please contact Michael Gorton AM.

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