For international medical graduates (IMGs) aiming to secure a medical job in Australia, clinical observation plays a crucial role. While qualifications like AMC Part 1 and CPD activities are common among candidates, clinical observation can provide a significant competitive edge. This article explores the importance of clinical observation, its requirements, available opportunities, and how to effectively utilise this experience to enhance employability.
What Is Clinical Observation?
Clinical observation is a structured, short-term exposure to the workings of a healthcare system. It allows IMGs to understand the role of a junior doctor within the Australian medical environment. The typical duration ranges from 4 to 12 weeks, though longer periods are generally more beneficial.
Key Learning Objectives of Clinical Observation:
Familiarisation with the local healthcare system, including patient consultations.
Observing doctor-patient interactions and collaboration with healthcare professionals.
Improving spoken clinical English skills.
Networking with doctors to obtain references for job applications.
Requirements for Clinical Observation in Australia
To apply for clinical observation, IMGs generally need:
✔ AMC Part 1 or AMC Clinical Exam clearance.
✔ Vaccination proof, including COVID-19.
✔ A well-structured CV and cover letter.
✔ Strong English communication skills.
Most public hospitals in Australia prefer permanent residents or citizens. However, private clinics and independent observership programmes may offer opportunities to temporary residents as well.
Where Can You Get Clinical Observation in Australia?
1. Public Hospital Programmes
Northern Health Clinical Observation (Melbourne) – 6-week programme for temporary and permanent residents.
Tasmania Clinical Observation Programme (Launceston) – Available but limited opportunities.
IMG Programmes in Melbourne (Austin, Monash, Bairnsdale) – Various observership options.
2. Private and GP-Based Observerships
Emergency Focus Clinical Observership (Sydney) – GP and hospital-based training.
My Health Medical Practice (Sydney) – GP training sites offering hands-on learning.
3. International Observerships
Observerships in New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, or the USA can be valuable if they provide exposure to a comparable healthcare system. However, Australian employers prefer local clinical experience.
Expectations During Clinical Observation
To make the most of the observership, IMGs should:
✅ Be punctual and professional at all times.
✅ Respect patient confidentiality – direct patient interaction is often limited.
✅ Engage in teaching sessions for doctors and nurses.
✅ Dress appropriately – scrubs for hospitals, smart casual for GP settings.
✅ Assist where possible – fetching patients, preparing for consultations, writing notes.
✅ Demonstrate enthusiasm – a positive attitude can lead to strong references.
A great way to leave a lasting impression is by expressing gratitude to supervisors—a thank-you note or small token (e.g., chocolates) can go a long way.
Hospital vs GP-Based Clinical Observerships
Hospital-Based Observerships
Exposure to emergency, medical, or surgical departments.
Highly structured but limited supervision due to a busy environment.
Difficult to obtain direct mentorship or references.
GP-Based Observerships
One-on-one interaction with GP supervisors.
More opportunities for learning and patient discussions.
Ideal for those seeking future GP roles in Australia.
Unsuitable Observership Placements:
❌ ICU, HDU, CCU – Highly specialised with minimal general exposure.
❌ Mental Health Wards – Limited interaction due to patient conditions.
❌ Radiology & Anaesthesia – Less exposure to patient journeys and clinical decision-making.
Adding Clinical Observation to Your CV
Once the observership is complete, highlight it strategically on your CV:
📌 List it as recent clinical experience with specific dates.
📌 Describe the setting – rural/urban, GP/hospital, patient demographics.
📌 Detail your role – shadowing doctors, and understanding patient journeys.
📌 Highlight key skills learned, such as history-taking, clinical English proficiency, and team collaboration.
📌 Include a reference from your supervising doctor.
Dos & Don’ts of Clinical Observerships
✅ Dos
✔ Be enthusiastic and proactive in your learning.
✔ Ask questions at appropriate times (e.g., during breaks).
✔ Network with healthcare staff to build relationships.
✔ Keep a reflective journal to strengthen job applications.
❌ Don’ts
❌ Use your mobile phone during clinical hours.
❌ Take photos of patient records or procedures.
❌ Push supervisors for references—build rapport first.
❌ Waste time gossiping or loitering in hospital libraries.
Final Thoughts
Clinical observerships provide an excellent opportunity for IMGs to gain valuable exposure, build professional networks, and improve job prospects in Australia. By approaching this experience with professionalism and enthusiasm, doctors can increase their chances of securing employment.
Are you looking for a clinical observation in Australia? The Emergency Focus Clinical Observership Programme in Sydney is now accepting applicants for its next cohort. If you are interested, email info@emergencyfocus.net for more details.
📢 Have you completed a clinical observership? Share your experience in the comments below!
All image are from Canva
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