Consultation - new policy on Post Fellowship Specialty Recognition

Date published:

27 Mar 2017

The RACP is seeking feedback on the draft Post Fellowship Specialty Recognition Policy which is proposed to replace the Recognition in a Specialty without completion of relevant Advanced Training Program Policy (2010).

What is this policy?

A policy framework for Fellows to be recognised by the RACP in a specialty or specialty field (referred to as ‘specialty’), usually for the purpose of supporting an application for specialist registration with the relevant regulatory bodies in Australia or New Zealand.

The policy applies to Fellows seeking recognition in a specialty:

which is different to the specialty the Fellow is currently recognised in by the RACP, or
where the Fellow is currently recognised by the RACP as a Specialist Physician or Specialist Paediatrician without a specialty field (undifferentiated Fellowship).

Read the draft Post Fellowship Specialty Recognition Policy (PDF 184KB).

Read the current Recognition in a Specialty without completion of relevant Advanced Training Program Policy (2010) (PDF 89KB).

What are the aims of the new policy?

Respond to feedback and issues raised since implementation of the current policy.
Address current and emerging issues in the regulatory environment.
Ensure alignment to best practice.

Key features of the proposed new policy

More flexible eligibility criteria

Fellowship of the RACP (Divisions, Faculties or Chapters)
- FRACP required for recognition in a Divisional specialty.

At least five years professional experience as a consultant in the specialty.

Revised assessment process

A Fellow’s competence to practice will be assessed against the level expected of someone who has completed the relevant RACP training program – taking account of

length, breadth and seniority of professional experience compared to RACP graduate outcomes
currency of expert knowledge and skills in the specialty
active Continuing Professional Development in the specialty
contribution to the specialty.

Broader range of possible outcomes

Recognition in the specialty.
Recognition in the specialty pending satisfactory completion of additional requirements.
Not recognised in the specialty.

Support resources

Supporting resources for the revised policy will consist of new applicant and assessor guidelines, a revised application form, and guidelines for decision making committees.

Implementation

It is anticipated that the policy will be implemented by the end of 2017.

Have your say on the development of the policy and process

Consultation closes Wednesday, 10 May 2017, after which a working group comprising College members will meet to review feedback and revise the final draft policy for recommendation to the College Education Committee.
Please provide feedback via the consultation survey or in writing to EducationPolicy@racp.edu.au

Read about other Education policies in development.