FAQs

Q. Do I have to complete a country rotation?

A. Yes. It is a College requirement to complete a term in a regional or rural hospital, and is an excellent opportunity to broaden your training. The consortium rosters trainees to both country rotations and metropolitan rotations on an equitable basis. Please speak to a DPE if you have concerns regarding this.

Q. Am I employed by the Consortium directly?

A. No. The Central North West Consortium is not a legal entity and oversees the training program. Austin Health, Northern Health, and Bendigo Health appoint Trainees separately.

Q. Can I attend an RACP written exam preparation course in BPT2 year?

A. Yes. All BPT2 Trainees preparing to sit the MCQ Exam for the first time are guaranteed time off to attend one of the four courses in Melbourne, Sydney or Dunedin. The rosters will have leave spread throughout this period and you need to be aware you may not get time off for your first preference. Please ensure you book into the course you have leave approved for.

Q. Am I able to swap shifts or rotations?

A. Yes. Both shift swaps and rotation swaps are possible. Shifts swaps need to be communicated to MWU at the Hospital it affects. Rotation swaps need to be approved by MWU at the hospital affected; you will also need to check that this will not affect your rotational requirements and discuss with a DPE.

Q. How do I join a study group?

A. Trainees have generally formed study groups amongst themselves. If you are new to the Consortium and don't really know anyone then our Consortium Manager will be happy to help you with finding a group.

Q. Is Up To Date available at all sites?

A. The Libraries at Austin and Bendigo can offer a free version of UTD that requires you to use your hospital login to access the content. Northern Health have recently switched to a DynaMed - a similar subscription service which is available for all employees.