Who’s who in training
Regional team
As a new registrar, you’ll be supported from the time you enter the FSP through to Fellowship.
Your training program team includes a training coordinator and a medical educator (ME). In addition, you’ll be supported by a supervisor nominated by yourself.
Your regional team is supported by the national RACGP services and teams.
Training coordinator
You’ll be allocated a training coordinator when you begin training. This person is a key contact for training-related queries, such as administrative tasks and requirements for training progression. Training coordinators work closely with the regional medical education team.
Medical educator
MEs are experienced GPs with educational and practical knowledge in the general practice environment. An ME may also be a supervisor in a practice, but not undertaking the role of your FSP supervisor.
At the beginning of training, you’ll be allocated an ME who will mentor, guide and support you in your education and learning. Contact your ME if you have more clinically focused queries; however, their role does not extend to your clinical supervision. Be aware that MEs usually work part time as they also work in general practice. If you need urgent assistance from an ME and yours isn’t available, please contact your training coordinator who will put you in touch with an available ME.
Supervisor
Supervisors are integral to general practice training. They’re experienced GPs working in accredited training practices. As part of an apprenticeship model, a supervisor is a professional role model for a registrar, helping to lay the foundation for lifelong learning, professionalism and high-quality patient care.
Supervisors provide advice and support, one-on-one teaching, supervision, feedback and assessment. In rural areas, a supervisor provides local information and support to the registrar and their family. Supervisors contribute to team-based learning in the practice setting, which will include other GPs and practice staff.
Your GP supervisor is often the most important person supporting you in your general practice training. Your relationship with them is very important.
Cultural mentors and educators
The RACGP is committed to promoting and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. The capabilities and competencies required to deliver culturally safe and quality care and to work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are essential for an Australian GP.
Arrangements for cultural mentorship and education in the FSP are not yet finalised. This handbook will be updated when more information is available.
National team
The RACGP national team has oversight of the FSP, providing high-level educational leadership. They may provide guidance and decision-making in particular circumstances, such as program entry, practice and supervisor accreditation, educational support and remediation, application for extended leave, managing critical incidents, and exam and Fellowship eligibility and completion.
Registrar liaison officer
Registrar liaison officers (RLOs) provide confidential advice, care, information and support to registrars within their region. RLOs understand the issues facing registrars because they are GP registrars themselves.
Your RLO is available to listen to you and may:
- provide advice
- refer you to a health professional for further support
- help you submit enquiries or complaints
- facilitate social or group events as a way of helping registrars debrief and support each other.