After Hours Medical Deputising Service Update

On the 1st of August 2020, the Department of Health released new guidelines for After Hours Medical Deputising Services. 

Initial participation period is now capped at 2 years 

This has changed so doctors will move to a college-led Fellowship program (AGPT, ACRRM Independent Pathway, PEP & RVTS) within two years of commencing on the program, so that they continue on a pathway that leads them to Fellowship. However, you can still participate in the AMDS program while you also participate in a college-led fellowship program up to a maximum of 10 years in total. You’ll need to request an extension each year after the initial two year period. 

If you commenced on the program prior to 1st July 2020: You will have the maximum two year participation period applied from the date of your next renewal. 

Establishment of a National Call Centre

For program providers, the 2020 guidelines allow for the establishment of a national call centre, which will still only operate only during the Commonwealth defined after hours period. 

Things that haven’t changed include the requirement that Medical Deputising Services must remain operational for twelve months prior to applying to the AMDS Program. Doctors with limited and provisional registration are also still eligible to participate on the program so long as they are providing in-clinic services only, and have the required supervision arrangements in place.  An AMDS cannot be established at a site that provides allied health services during regular business hours. The restriction on co-location applies to both general practice, and other medical or allied health services. 

Your Feedback is Welcome

The Department is willing to support a short grace period for a change of location for existing AMDS Service Providers. They’re also prepared to review the factors that they have changed. Accreditation Agencies can discuss this directly with Health. 

If you have any questions about this information, or would like to find out more, please contact our team at help@peoplemedical.com.au or 07 3053 1444.

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Our team offer General Practitioners assistance with finding jobs and a career pathway, and Medical Facilities to find a new Medical Practitioner. We also help with the full application process with AHPRA, RACGP, ACRRM, Department of Health, Medicare including 19AA & 19AB. If we can help, please contact us at help@peoplemedical.com.au. 

People Medical Consulting are a team of professionals with a passion for guiding those specialising in the Medical industry to find their career pathway and settle into Australia. Working with both Australian trained and Overseas trained professionals, we have extensive experience in Recruitment of General Practitioners and Document Assistance for those requiring support with RACGP, AHPRA, 19AA and 19AB Medicare Exemptions.