From January 2023, we’ll return to training and accreditation as usual. We expect you to complete standard training and assessment requirements as published in the RACP Basic Training or Advanced Training handbook.

We developed a set of education and training principles to guide our decision-making during the pandemic and provide our position on potential impacts to training. The principles were first published in March 2020 then reviewed and updated in late 2020, 2021 and 2022 to reflect the changing COVID-19 situation.

The principles will continue to be referenced by training committees to guide decision making in consideration of exceptional individual trainee circumstances involving significant COVID-19 impacts. This will occur through the existing special consideration process.

Should the COVID-19 situation change significantly the College Education Committee may review the application of the principles:

1. Providing patient care for individuals and the community, whilst maintaining a healthy workforce, are fundamental priorities at this time.
2. The impact of COVID-19 will be considered 'exceptional circumstances' and any absences from training as a result will be treated fairly and with compassion.
3. The College recognise that approved training may be significantly disrupted due to COVID-19. Trainees may be redeployed to support the COVID-19 response.
   
   In 2020, guidance was developed, for each training program, in consultation with training committees on how COVID-19 support rotations will be assessed, taking into account the current training requirements.
   
   From 2021, training committees are providing flexibility for trainees based on individual circumstances.
   
   More information can be found in your Basic Training or Advanced Training handbook.
4. All College training committees will act transparently and fairly.
5. Trainees must continue to receive appropriate orientation and supervision, even if they’re redeployed to a different clinical area.
6. Support is available to trainees and supervisors who may want to consider or discuss increasing or decreasing training hours or apply for interruption of training as a result of family or personal commitments changes resulting from COVID-19.
7. It’s recognised that the disruptions to training caused by COVID-19 may have flow on effects to subsequent years for some trainees. Trainees should keep detailed and accurate records of changes to their training program.
8. The College appreciates the overload on health systems during this crisis and understands that the normal cycle of accreditation may require adjustment. Any requirement for accreditation site visits will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and in consultation with the site.
9. The College will communicate updates to all members as decisions are made, including information relating to exams, training requirements, training time and accreditation.