Health system
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Australia’s health system has much to offer medical practitioners. Many overseas trained doctors (OTDs) cite lifestyle factors as their primary motivator in coming to Australia. And it’s true that Australia presents one of the most attractive lifestyle destinations in the world. For doctors, part of this attraction is the diversity of healthcare settings that provide such a wealth of professional opportunity.
OTDs are usually required to work in an area of workforce shortage (generally rural areas of Australia and parts of the public hospital system in metropolitan areas) indefinitely while a temporary resident or for a period of 10 years, or 5 years in special circumstances, if a permanent resident or citizen of Australia. However, you will find that even within these requirements, the choice of location and practice type is extensive. Highly skilled doctors are always needed. You could find yourself working in a large city teaching hospital, a private clinic, or even taking on a more adventurous role working for the world famous Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)---depending on where the demand for OTDs is at the time, and on your particular skills and preferences.
Australia’s health system is widely recognised as world class. A leader in quality healthcare delivery, education and research (the latter two with a traditionally strong international focus), Australia has produced an industry culture that truly values international experience.
Australia’s robust private health sector is complemented by a universal public health system called Medicare. The way in which these 2 sectors have been combined and balanced ensures quality care and choice for all Australians.
The Department of Health and Ageing, sets national health policies and subsidises the health services provided by State and Territory governments and the private sector. Their funding range includes universal medical services and pharmaceuticals, financial assistance for public hospitals, residential care facilities, hostels, home and community care, and support for training of health professionals and tertiary students. The Department is also the major source of funding for health research.
State and Territory governments are responsible for delivery of the health services, including most acute and psychiatric hospital services. They also provide community and public health services for areas of healthcare including school, dental, child and maternal, occupational, disease control, and various health inspection functions.
Local governments are responsible for environmental control---garbage disposal, clean water, and health inspections, for example. They also provide a range of home care and personal preventive services, such as screening for breast cancer.
We hope that this DoctorConnect website will help you to determine if Australia is the right place for you and, if it is, show you how to obtain the information you need to work as a medical practitioner in Australia.