GPs new to general practice one step ahead thanks to RDN Workshop

Last week, 13 GPs who are new to general practice, including Overseas Trained Doctors (OTDs), took part in RDN’s ‘New GP Orientation Workshop’ which was held at St Leonards, Sydney.  

Held across two days, the Workshop aims to support doctors new to general practice in remote, rural and regional locations and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs), to deliver high quality medical services and help set them up for success in their new role.  

"We're delighted to have held our first New GP Orientation workshop for 2025," said RDN Workforce Support Lead Alannah Keogh. 

"These workshops are designed to equip new and international doctors with the essential knowledge, skills, and networks required to thrive in rural practice. By providing a comprehensive professional, clinical, and social orientation, the workshops help smooth the transition to country GP roles, ensuring doctors are well-prepared to navigate the unique challenges of rural Australia."

The engaged group of professionals received an overview of General Practice in rural NSW, including navigating Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, cultural awareness, accessing GP support, pathways to Fellowship and professional and ethical responsibilities. 

A clinical orientation offered an introduction to Indigenous health to identify and work with Aboriginal people in a culturally safe and appropriate way whilst achieving work life balance was a key component of the social orientation part of the Workshop.