The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is calling for doctors to step up and train where they are needed most.
Applications for the ACRRM Fellowship program open today (Tuesday 8 April), offering doctors a specialist pathway to work in rural, remote, and First Nations communities—where access to healthcare remains a critical challenge.
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says demand for Rural Generalists (RGs) has never been higher, with communities across the country facing severe shortages of medical professionals.
“Right now, many rural and remote communities are struggling to access essential healthcare, and RGs are the solution,” Dr Martin says.
“RGs are highly skilled, broad-scope doctors who can provide emergency care, obstetrics, surgery, mental health support, and ongoing primary care—all in one role, close to home.”
Dr Martin says the College has been successful in recruiting doctors to the program, regularly oversubscribing the number of available training places.
“We have been able to offer all successful applicants a position and are advocating for more places on the program.
“With the recognition of Rural Generalist Medicine as a distinct specialty, we expect even greater interest in this career path, which will be vital in strengthening healthcare in our rural and remote regions.”
Dr Martin adds the recent election campaign commitments to expand training opportunities for rural doctors are an encouraging step forward.
“As governments commit to increasing support for rural medical training, we welcome the opportunity to train more doctors who are passionate about delivering high-quality care in the communities that need them most.”
ACRRM Fellowship is the only training program in Australia designed specifically to prepare doctors for the challenges and rewards of rural, remote, and First Nations medicine.
“From day one, ACRRM registrars train in rural and remote settings, gaining the expertise and confidence they need to serve these communities long-term,” Dr Martin says.
“This is a career where every day is different.
“By attracting and supporting more doctors to build careers in rural healthcare, we are directly addressing workforce shortages and ensuring people get the care they deserve, no matter their postcode.”
Applications open Tuesday, 8 April. More information is available at acrrm.org.au