Fast-track IMG pathway to fix medical workforce crisis places 80% of specialists in metro areas
Many of these doctors are heading for fast-growing communities with limited access to medical care, says medical board chair.
More than 100 IMG specialists have been brought into Australia to fill workforce holes under a controversial fast-track pathway — but most are working in outer metropolitan areas, new AHPRA data show.
The Federal Government’s new expedited IMG pathway has been roundly condemned by medical colleges.
Launched last year, doctors with specified fellowship qualifications from Ireland, New Zealand and the UK pay a $1550 application fee.
None are assessed for suitability by the relevant specialist college in Australia. Instead, they work under six months’ supervision before being put on the specialist register, after which they can work unsupervised.
