Supporting newly arrived overseas-trained doctors at the Launceston General Hospital (Staff)

Project commencement date:

Project completion date:

Chief Investigator/Contact: Ms Shandell Elmer

This project arose from a perceived need to provide support to newly arrived Overseas Trained Doctors (OTDs) and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) working at the Launceston General Hospital (LGH). The aim of this research project was to develop an understanding of the challenges they face in order to develop strategies to best support them in the early stages of their contract.

Dr Beth Mulligan, Director of Clinical Training at the Launceston General Hospital, worked with Shandell Elmer, a researcher from the UDRH, to investigate these issues. The results of the focus groups conducted as part of the project indicated the great deal of diversity amongst the OTDs and IMGs; however, they shared the need for clinical support and supervision. Key themes which emerged from the focus groups were the variability in clinical knowledge and skills, communication difficulties, the impact of cultural diversity and the need for orientation to a different health care system.

To improve the experience of newly arrived OTDs and IMGs, a list of recommendations have been offered.

Some of these recommendations will inform the development of a standardised application and appointment process for OTDs in Tasmania to be developed by the OTD Program.

Members: Shandell Elmer, Beth Mulligan