New GP Orientation Workshops take place at Manly
30th November 2024
RDN again hosted New GP Orientation (NGPO) workshops ahead of the Rural GPs Conference at Manly last week, with 26 new GPs in attendance. The NGPO program is designed to smooth the transition to rural practice for those starting out as country GPs and has gathered a loyal fan base among new and international doctors starting out practice in the bush.
The NGPO workshops include professional, clinical and social orientation, and are highly valued by International Medical Graduates for their emphasis on understanding the unique role of rural GPs and the cultural environment of rural Australia.
The face-to-face workshops provided the opportunity to meet and make friends with a network of doctors experiencing similar challenges.
"The NGPO workshops are designed to equip new and international doctors with the essential knowledge, skills, and networks required to thrive in rural practice," said RDN Workforce Support Lead Alannah Keogh. "By providing a comprehensive professional, clinical, and social orientation, these workshops help smooth the transition to country GP roles, ensuring doctors are well-prepared to navigate the unique challenges of rural Australia. With a loyal following among those starting their careers in the bush, the NGPO program offers invaluable support, and a deeper understanding of the vital role rural GPs play in local communities."
"The topics were practical, especially the medico-legal issues, and I highly recommend it to everyone starting their career in Australia", said Dr Mohammadreza Arbabi, who works at Vecare Health Medical Centre in Holbrook and Walla Walla, and comes from Iran.
"The event was incredibly informative, and the speakers were excellent. I gained valuable insights into fellowship pathways and medico-legal issues," said Dr Zamyad Salaty, who works at Goldsmith Street Surgery in Goulburn, and also comes from Iran.
The Manly NGPO workshopt took place as part of Rural Health Month, a series of multidisciplinary training and networking events hosted by Rural Health Pro, a social enterprise of RDN. RDN conducts a number of NGPO workshops to support new rural doctors each year. Watch for news of upcoming NGPOs and other events in our Monday Message news email.
Related reading