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What is More Doctors for Rural Australia Program (MDRAP)

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What is MDRAP?

Part of the Stronger Rural Health Strategy, the More Doctors for Rural Australia Program (MDRAP) is a 3GA program that commenced in April 2019 to support non-VR Doctors to upskill.

The aim of the Strategy is to improve the quality and volume of services available in Australian rural and remote communities.

Please see below some answers to the most frequently asked questions (FAQs), but feel free to call us for further clarification.

 

Do I have to be an Australian resident to apply for MDRAP?

No, Australian Citizens, permanent residents and temporary residents are all eligible to apply but you must:

  • Have current Medical Board of Australia registration.

  • Have an offer of employment, with the necessary skills/experience to perform the role.

  • Take actions to join a college pathway within a set period.

  • Undertake general practice professional development activities.

Previous 3GA placements will also be considered when your application is assessed.

 

I’m on RLRP, am I affected?

RLRP is now closed to new applicants, however those already approved for RLRP can remain until the end of placement and are not required to move to MDRAP.

 

I’m on OMPs, am I affected?

OMPs is now closed to new applicants, however OMPs under grandfathering arrangements are open until 30 June 2023, for eligible Doctors.

Other OMPs, eg AHOMPS, ROMPS that are approved, can continue at the existing location.

 

How long is an MDRAP placement?

Approvals for MDRAP are awarded for 2 years. You may obtain an extension for up to 4 years, with extenuating circumstances and on a case-by-case basis.

 

Can I work anywhere on MDRAP?

No. This is a rural strategy and therefore the location must fall under one of the following:

  • Modified Monash Model (MMM) 2-7 and District Workforce Shortage (DWS).

  • Aboriginal Medical Service.

  • Practice holds an exemption under s19(2) or s19(5) of the Health Insurance Act 1973.

 

Can I claim a Medicare Rebate under MDRAP?

Yes, you will be able to obtain a Medicare Refer, Request and Rebateable (R+R+R) provider number.

MDRAP approved Doctors can utlilise item numbers from Group A7 of the MBS.

 

Are Group A7 item numbers paid the same as Group A1 item numbers?

No, A7 are 80% of the equivalent A1 number.

 

What is expected of Doctors when on the MDRAP program?

Apply to at least one fellowship program (eg AGPT, RVTS, ACRRM) each year.

Complete GP foundation training modules from RACGP of ACRRM within six months of starting MDRAP.

Ensure at least half of the AHPRA CPD requirements are relevant to General Practice.

 

Will I have a Supervisor?

This varies depending on the category of the Doctor. Certainly Doctors with less than 6 months general practice experience, will be provided with Supervision framework.

Please note the supervision under MDRAP is not the same as AHPRA supervision requirements.

 

What is the process of Application?

To apply for the MDRAP contact the Rural Workforce Agency (RWA) in your State or Territory.

 

Links to RWAs

 

Our Sources

 

The team at Medical Recruitment has a plethora of knowledge and experience in working with Doctors and Practices. Feel free to contact us to discuss your personal requirements and situation.

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