Royal Australian College of Medical Administrators

Training Program

The advanced training program is three years full-time or six years part-time. There is no basic training component.

The college's training program for candidates has three strands:

• approved workplace supervised medical management experience over three years;
• theoretical studies involving an Australian, or equivalent, university masters degree program containing the core units determined by the RACMA; and
• satisfactory completion of the RACMA training program.

Part-time and interrupted training are options. Successful completion of training involves completion of 3, full-time equivalent years, with supervised administrative experience.

Trainee Selection

The applicant must have: completed a medical degree at a recognised Australasian university or equivalent; current medical registration in Australia or New Zealand; and at least three years clinical experience in an Australian or New Zealand health system.

Having met these requirements, a clinician makes an application to the college and submits supporting evidence. The application is examined and verified. Where necessary, additional information may be sought. The completed application is reviewed by the censor-in-chief, who then makes a recommendation to the college council that the applicant be accepted or not. Sometimes an applicant may be interviewed. The applicant is then advised of the outcome. Fees are paid. The applicant becomes a candidate, and is allocated a preceptor and supervisor. The first 12 months is a probationary period.

Trainee Assessment

Trainee assessment involves workplace-based assessment and successful completion of both a university masters degree, including core units approved by the college, and the college training program, which has four assessment components:

• participation in college workshops;
• presentation of a case study;
• preceptor/supervisor reports; and
• management practice folio.

There is also an oral examination in which each candidate answers four questions with two examiners to assess their management knowledge, skills and attitudes. Supplementary examination is allowed for those who fail to meet the requirements.

Overseas Trained Specialists

Overseas trained applicants first apply to the AMC for certification to practise in Australia, then apply to the college for candidacy. The censor-in-chief reviews all the required documentation. If found to be a suitable candidate, the applicant is interviewed by a college panel chaired by the censor-in-chief. During this process, the college determines the extent to which the applicant’s education, training, clinical and management experience is comparable to that of an Australian-trained medical administrator and whether the applicant requires any additional training or assessment.

Accreditation

The college accredits individual training posts according to the assessment criteria set out in the college's Accreditation Handbook.

Further Information

www.racma.edu.au