PESCI Preparation Workshop – stepping into Australian rural practice

On Thursday 14 May, Rural Doctors Network welcomed a small group of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to an expert-led workshop focused on preparing for their Pre-Employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI); an important step of their journey towards rural practice.

IMGs required to undertake a PESCI must register with a PESCI provider recognised by the Australian Medical Council prior to commencement of their Australian medical journey. The PESCI assessment involves interviewers evaluating the IMG as they perform scenarios based on common Australian general practice presentations, with a focus on safe and effective practice within the Australian healthcare context and local service capabilities, while demonstrating strong communication and professionalism.

The one-day comprehensive workshop was facilitated by Dr Ian Kamerman, a Tamworth-based rural GP and practice owner who is passionate about mentoring and training the next generation of rural health professionals. RDN’s Recruitment Portfolio Lead Jessica Yuen and Medical Workforce Consultant Pahu Hepana were also in attendance to meet with the IMGs, whom they will continue to support on their journeys towards rural practice. 

The workshop included familiarising with the key foundations of the Australian health system and cultural awareness, including the types of scenarios and competencies that could be assessed. Central to the day were the interactive scenarios and simulation role-play sessions, where the group discussed cases and how to effectively approach diagnoses, management plans and communication strategies tailored to their specific future roles, whilst building their capability and confidence.

As a pilot workshop for the Education & Training team at Rural Doctors Network, Education Services Manager Arna Wotherspoon reflects, “It was incredibly rewarding to see this group of doctors break down the realities of their future roles. Moving forward, we will continue to adapt the program to mirror the latest clinical interview formats, and we look forward to rolling out upcoming sessions—complete with new financial support pathways to further strengthen the rural health workforce and the communities they serve".

The small group workshops are open to all IMGs prior to enrolling in or currently preparing for a PESCI. For notification of upcoming PESCI Preparation Workshops and support funding, keep an eye on Monday Message or on the Upcoming Events webpage on our website.

Learn more about PESCI Preparation Workshops here.

Related reading:

• New GP Orientation Workshop inspires at Port Macquarie (2026)
• RDN hosts its "biggest New GP Orientation Workshop ever" (2025)
• 16 doctors new to rural practice travel to Newcastle for RDN workshop (2025)