52 weeks (FTE) of clinical hospital experience at a level above internship

52 weeks (FTE) of clinical hospital experience at a level above internship

Before you can start your core vocational training, you are expected to have worked at least 52 weeks (FTE) at a level above intern in accredited Australian or New Zealand hospitals.

For Australian registrars, this typically includes clinical experience completed post general medical registration / post intern level. For international registrars, clinical experience completed pre general medical registration may be considered provided it was undertaken at a level above intern.

There are various ways in which you can meet the hospital time requirement, eg:

• If you entered AGPT directly after your internship, you will need to complete the full 52 weeks (FTE) of clinical hospital experience as part of your hospital training term (i.e. Year 1 of the program).
• If you gained broad hospital experience after your intern year and before you entered AGPT, you may be able to get some of that experience counted towards the hospital time requirement. This is done by applying for Recognition of Prior Learning and Experience (RPLE).

There are strict rules applicable to RPLE and we understand that each registrar has unique circumstances, so make sure you speak to your training coordinator or medical educator for tailored advice. For more information on RPLE and how to apply, go to Recognition of prior learning and experience.

If you are eligible for RPLE, you may be able to reduce your time in hospital training (ie Year 1 of the program) or even to start in GPT1 directly upon entry into AGPT, provided you meet all other readiness requirements.