Preparing for employment
Complete an employment agreement
While in the FSP, you're responsible for your employment arrangements and conditions at your approved training site. The RACGP has no jurisdiction over your employment conditions.
Before commencing at a training site, you need to finalise your agreement and employment terms and conditions. You should get in contact with the practice manager or relevant administrative staff member early so that your employment contract is finalised before the term begins.
Have a Medicare provider number
It is vital that you have an RACGP FSP Medicare provider number (MPN) before you start working at your approved training site. Your MPN gives your patients access to Medicare rebates for all or part of their healthcare. Any time you spend working without an MPN can't be counted as training time.
What happens if I don't receive a Medicare provider number in time for my program commencement?
If you don't have an MPN, it may mean you can't start work, as your patients won't be able to claim the Medicare rebate. You'll need to be on Category 4 leave as per the Leave Policy.
What if I change training sites?
If a change of training site is approved by the RACGP, you must apply for a new MPN. All MPN processing is handled by the approved placements team within the College. They'll ensure the correct processing of your paperwork through to Services Australia, whether it's at the start of your training or if you've requested an extension. It's important that all finalised MPN paperwork is sent to approvedplacements@racgp.org.au. We'll send you a new Medicare provider number application form along with your outcome letter should your change of training site be approved.
Will my training site and the RACGP be notified of my Medicare provider number?
No. Services Australia will send your MPN to you. It's your responsibility to notify your training site and the RACGP of your MPN as soon as you receive it to ensure you can start at your training site as planned.
The RACGP requests that you send a copy of your finalised paperwork from Medicare to approvedplacement@racgp.org.au.
How long is my Medicare provider number valid?
The RACGP authorises MPN end dates for six months beyond the education component of your FSP. We're able to assist with exensions to your provider number for the duration of the training program which consists of the education phase and consolidation phase, providing you continue to meet training progression requirements and the training site complies with the General practice fellowship program placement guidelines. If we withdraw you from the FSP or you withdraw voluntarily, your provider number will be cancelled.
It's your responsibility to monitor when your Medicare provider number is due to expire. Neither Medicare nor the RACGP will issue reminders.