ACRRM Rural Generalist training program accredited for specialist registration

The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine's (ACRRM) purpose-built Rural Generalist training program has been accredited by the Medical Board of Australia, recognising the College's Fellowship qualification for the purposes of specialist registration. 

The accreditation confirms ACRRM's Fellowship meets the national standards required for specialist recognition and reinforces the College's position as Australia's only specialist medical college dedicated entirely to Rural Generalist medicine. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says the decision is recognition of more than three decades of work designing training specifically for rural, remote and First Nations communities. 

"This accreditation recognises what Rural Generalists and rural communities have known for years - ACRRM's training is built for rural, remote and First Nations medicine. 

"We are Australia's only specialist medical college dedicated entirely to Rural Generalist medicine, and every aspect of our Fellowship has been designed around the realities of practising in rural and remote Australia. 

"From day one of training, our doctors develop the skills, clinical judgement and adaptability needed to care for communities where they may be the only doctor available or where specialist services are hours away. 

"Rural Generalist medicine isn't general practice in a rural setting,” Dr Martin says.   

“It is specialist medicine requiring advanced skills, broad clinical capability and a deep understanding of the communities we serve.” 

Dr Martin adds accreditation is an important step in the recognition of Rural Generalist medicine as a field of specialist practice. 

“This is another significant step in strengthening the profession. “It doesn’t only recognise those already living and working as Rural Generalists. 

"It will encourage medical students and junior doctors to choose Rural Generalist medicine as a rewarding specialist career.  

“Every new Rural Generalist who chooses this pathway strengthens access to healthcare for rural, remote and First Nations communities."