Inspiration and information about moving to Australia or New Zealand as a doctor 

Moving to Australia or New Zealand

Moving to AU/NZ

It was a cold and dark winters evening when Dr Esther O’Sullivan decided she was tired of the short days and long winters in Ireland, and she needed a new lifestyle.

Now, she has a new life in Rotorua; the geothermal and adventure capital of New Zealand.
 
*This is her story.*

## **Early Life: **

Esther O'Sullivan is from the West of Ireland, loving science at school she decided that medicine was her calling. 
“I have enjoyed working as a doctor. I did most of my training in Ireland” O’Sullivan explained. 
 
Looking back she remembers the job of a junior doctor was not always easy

> “We used to do long shifts on call as junior doctors – a whole weekend sometimes, and often about 33 hours. I remember struggling to stay awake at the end of these.” 

## **Coming to New Zealand to work as a doctor:**
 
O’Sullivan had never been to New Zealand before, but something about the country with its towering mountains and lush hiking trails appealed to her. “I’ve always liked traveling, and in particular to places with beautiful landscapes and opportunities to explore on foot – hiking or running. So New Zealand seemed an obvious choice when I decided to relocate.”
 
Looking online at New Zealand, O’Sullivan was drawn to the diverse natural landscapes; untamed forests and misty fiords,  golden beaches, and waters of turquoise. 
 
>  “I decided to take action and look for a job here one cold and dark winters evening – when I was tired of the short days and long winters at home.”
 
When she registered her interest with Medrecruit she was put in touch with Jess Pearson, a Medrecruit Solution Specialist who specialises in working with international doctors and made the move from the UK herself many years ago. 
 
“She was immediately very helpful – she set up a phone call to get an idea of what I was looking for and made the process very straightforward.” 
 
From this point onwards, Jess guided her through the rest of the process. 
 
“There was a lot of paperwork but Jess helped make it as streamlined as possible, with regard to what the hospital required, the medical council in New Zealand, and also pointing me toward assistance with my visa application.” 
 
Packing everything up her house and deciding on what to ship to New Zealand wasn’t as bad as she thought it would be, “it was really refreshing to declutter.”
 
Although saying goodbye to her friends and family was tough, a brand new job and lifestyle awaited her in Rotorua.
 
> “On arriving in Rotorua it took a while to settle in, and I found it lonely at first, but as it’s a small town, and the hospital is also quite small it wasn’t long before I’d met a lot of people and settled in. I had accommodation provided for a month and everyone was very welcoming. Jess and others at Medrecruit continued to provide support right to the end of the process of moving.”

## **A new life in Rotorua, New Zealand**
 
“All the upheaval and initial stress have definitely been worth it – life here is great, there is a fantastic trail running and loads of events to take part in – this is a great way to see some of this beautiful country. I’ve already explored quite a bit and done some tramps on a few of the great walks.” 
 
Rotorua is a small and close-knit community, but its stunning geothermal landscapes, and beautiful forests make it a popular tourist attraction and holiday destination for New Zealanders.
 
> “My favourite thing to do on days off in Rotorua is to go to the forest for a run – it’s so peaceful there.” 
 
Rotorua is famous for its thermal hot pools, which people have been coming to bathe in since the mid-19th-century. The geothermally heated water is said to have healing properties and be able to cure ailments such as arthritis and rheumatism.
 
“The hot pools are also a good option, very relaxing, especially on a cool evening.” 
 
The Bay of Plenty region also holds many of New Zealand’s other wonders including Mount Maunganui, The Coromandel, and even Hobbiton. 
 
“The Bay of Plenty is a lovely area, with diverse landscape and lots of hiking trails. It’s also easy to explore further afield from here – the airport in Rotorua is very handy for this. Also, there are ski fields less than 2 hours away.” 

Since moving to New Zealand Esther has left the long dark winters of Ireland behind and spends most of her free time enjoying the outdoors. 
 
“My favourite thing about living in New Zealand is the appreciation people have for getting out in nature, and making the most of what’s right on our doorstep. It’s been a real rejuvenating change moving here, and a fantastic adventure so far.” 



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Find out why she chose to make the move from Ireland to live and work in New Zealand. 

Moving to New Zealand

Dr Esther O'Sullivan: "It’s been a real rejuvenating change moving here, and a fantastic adventure so far.” 

Yesterday Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern released her plan to start reopening the borders. 
The plan starts this year, with the vaccination program ramping up, Ardern has promised that everyone in New Zealand will have been offered the vaccine by the end of the year. This will be in conjunction with a trial of shorter MIQ stays, or home isolation for selected travellers. 

The new quarantine system will be based on three levels of risk: low, medium, high. 

## **This means for vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries, there may be no isolation required.**

For vaccinated travelers from medium-risk countries, some isolation would be required, but with the new plan, it could be a shorter stay in MIQ or even home isolation.

Unvaccinated travelers and all travellers from high-risk countries would still have to do 14 days in a MIQ facility.

## **What does it mean for doctors? **

These changes are great news for overseas doctors, as it is now possible that you will not have to quarantine. 

We anticipate remaining house officer, senior house officer, and registrar roles to be advertised by mid-late September for January/February. 

The coming weeks mark the end of the National Recruitment Cycle, it is then hospitals turn their attention to internationally trained doctors, so it’s important to be prepared so as not to miss out.

The market remains highly competitive at that time of year, and it is important to ensure your applications stand out.  

At Medrecruit we not only prepare stand-out applications for you, but we get them in front of the right people.  We are renowned for our expertise in the medical registration and visa processes, providing your prospective employer complete confidence that you’ll be arriving in New Zealand in a timely manner and be able to start work within just a few short months.

For New Zealand doctors looking to experience Australia; now is the perfect time. With quarantine-free travel available to Kiwis, Australia offers the opportunity to get a taste of an OE whilst earning some money and continuing to grow your clinical skills. Speak to our team today about how we can set you up with your ideal job.


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Prime Minister Jacinda Arden plans to start reopening borders: here’s what it means if you’re a doctor looking to travel 

New border updates NZ | Medrecruit 

Dr Frances DeKock was out exercising in South Africa one afternoon when she was assaulted. It was this event that made her realise that she had become scared to live in her homeland. Crime was escalating and the homeless lined the streets. She had always dreamed of moving to New Zealand; the snow-capped mountain ranges and rugged scenery had touched her heart on a trip many years ago. 
She thought the chances of that dream coming true were slim when she reached out to Medrecruit. 
 
This is the story of how she achieved her lifelong dream and moved to the beautiful Coromandel region. 


## **Early Life: **

Dr Frances DeKock was born and raised in South Africa. Her father was South African and her mother was Scottish. At first, she majored in Piano at university. 
“I wanted to be a concert pianist but realised in my 2nd year of BMus degree that I was just not good enough!”
After deciding music wasn’t for her, she fell into medicine. It was in her blood and came to her naturally. 
“My mother and three of my grandparents are medical doctors so it may have been a profession I had some idea about before starting.”

## **Working as a doctor in South Africa:  **

Initially, she found working as a medical doctor in South Africa very fulfilling, but this began to change over the years. “I have been exposed to a wide diversity of pathologies and communities, having worked across the full range of socio-economic classes” explained DeKock. 
 
Several reasons lead Dr DeKock to reach out to Medrecruit. She felt her generation was paying for the horrors of apartheid. This made her unable to secure work in the public sector which she felt she could have best served.  
“I was stuck in the private sector and becoming professionally frustrated and bored.
My generation and race group are not wanted or welcome in South Africa at this stage in South African history - I absolutely believe in the bigger picture this is inevitable and best for the new South Africa. A difficult transmission period for many of which I am one.”
 
The second reason was the ever-increasing rates of crime. 
“I was assaulted while exercising one afternoon which had a massive impact on my attitude. I realised that I was single and now scared of my homeland so thought I would reach out for my dream and see if there was any, (although I thought slim) chance of finding work and a new life in New Zealand”  


## **The New Zealand Dream: **

Dr DeKock’s dream of coming to New Zealand was born about 20 years ago. She came on a trip here all alone and fell in love with the country. She climbed as many mountains as she could and lost herself in the rugged beauty - she didn’t want to leave. “I have had a lifelong love of nature and the outdoors. I rode horses for many years and love hiking and tramping.”
 
The idea of uprooting her whole life was daunting, but there was something about New Zealand that called to her “I am an opportunist and follow my heart!” 
 
After reaching out to Medrecruit, her dedicated Solution Specialist; Sarah found her a role at a Hospital in the Coromandel region. “Sarah was amazing - I feel that Medrecruit really changed my life by assisting me to realise my dream. They guided me step by step through the process of finding employment” 
 
She knew the move would be stressful on a whole new level, but Sarah and the team at Medrecruit made her feel supported enough to take the plunge, and when she made it she felt liberated.  “This feeling of following my heart and dreams is now something I am proud of and feel enriched by. Sometimes it feels surreal as well.” 

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## **A new life: **

 
Dr Frances DeKock was placed in the Coromandel, a region renowned for its natural beauty. Here pristine beaches meet waters of turquoise, you can explore caves, or get lost in nature walks through lush valleys and misty rainforests. 
‘It was worth the move a million times! I am happier than I imagined. It is taking a while to get used to living in paradise!’
 
Dr DeKock was happy in her new role from day one. “Sarah matched me perfectly for this position. I am doing work that I feel is appreciated. The patients are wonderful people and I feel honoured to be part of this community, who have accepted me with such warmth.”
 
The Coromandal is a holiday destination for many New Zealanders, and there is so much for DeKock to see and do on her days off from work.“The coromandel is really beautiful. Difficult to compare - South Africa is very dry by comparison. The lushness of the New Zealand countryside is something I love, coming from bone dry and dusty! I have tramped most of the tracks in the coromandel forest park- always out there on weekends.” 
 
Abundant in nature walks and hiking tracks, the Coromandel was the perfect place for Dr DeKock to start a new life. “I am really lucky to be out of South Africa now- really sad to see the conflict, compounding the devastation from Covid and the poverty caused by stringent lockdowns last year.” 
 
Back home in South Africa the crime is escalating and homeless are lining the streets, but DeKock is now far away and glad she made the move. 
“I feel safe here - I can walk in the forests and mountains alone and at any time of day without feeling scared of being attacked or robbed.” 
 
Everyday living and working in this beautiful country Dr DeKock feels lucky. Her family was all so supportive of the move, and her mum plans on visiting her in New Zealand soon. 
 
“I love exploring the wonderful mountains and forest parks to tramp in. The people are great. I feel accepted despite being a “foreigner” and everyone has been so kind and willing to help me in so many ways. I respect and admire the way the country is governed. It is an honour to have found work here and be able to live in such a fantastic country.”                  
 
 
**Dr Frances DeKock was placed by Medrecruit Solution Specialist Sarah Robertson. **



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How Dr Frances DeKock achieved her life-long dream of becoming a doctor in New Zealand. 

Becoming a doctor in New Zealand  | Medrecruit 

Dr Frances DeKock: “It was worth the move a million times! I am happier than I imagined”

British general medicine RMO Gabriella Paoloni wanted to move to New Zealand to work as a doctor, but the Covid-19 pandemic put a spanner in the works. 

Here, she talks about what it’s like moving to New Zealand to work as a doctor during the Coronavirus pandemic, and what it was like working during the UK’s second wave. 

## Planning to move during Covid-19
After months of planning to move to New Zealand, Dr Gabriella finished her FY2 paediatrics rotation in Torbay Hospital, Devon. But the coronavirus pandemic was in full swing in the UK, so she chose to stay at Torbay for longer. 

“Paediatrics wasn’t much affected, but we changed our shifts to make sure everything would still work if one of the team went off sick. The whole hospital changed. Recovery rooms became an extension of ICU. There were Covid and non-Covid teams… it was like we were prepping to go to war.” 

Though she was hoping to move to New Zealand for work in September 2020, New Zealand had closed its borders and it took a little longer than usual to obtain a special visa and the right job offer. She moved to an A&E department in Portsmouth during the interim, just as the second wave of Covid-19 hit the UK. 

“That was horrendous. I remember a day where there were eighteen ambulances waiting outside, all with Covid patients on oxygen… they were getting triaged to come in based on who was going to run out of oxygen first. It was so surreal.” 

## Moving to New Zealand 
Dr Gabriella worked with Medrecruit to complete the paperwork required to move to New Zealand as a doctor. This included completing EPIC (an electronic verification of qualifications), organising referees and applying for the right visa. 

“I had applied in December 2019 and got the ball rolling in 2020. I wanted to be prepared because I am infamously unprepared. I got the ball rolling with Jess Pearson at Medrecuit. She told me to do the EPIC and get my referees sorted.”

“[…] Jess was really supportive. The good thing about using Medrecruit is that you just had to do the paperwork once, then Jess would send it to different hospitals… You can use the same references and CV and cover letter, but you’d have to re-send it to all the different HR departments of each hospital and they want slightly different things. Jess did that for me, so I only had to do it once (apart from for Wellington and Auckland who have separate application forms).”

## Working as a doctor in Thames
Dr Gabriella was offered a 12-month contract in Thames, a small New Zealand town located on the Coromandel Peninsula, 1.5 hours’ drive from Auckland. A bit more paperwork and two weeks of quarantine were required before Dr Gabriella could travel to her new home. 

“It’s a small hospital and community, so everyone helps each other. The consultants are always approachable. As it is a rural hospital, they have to be very knowledgeable about everything. I’ve learned a lot. I feel like my knowledge and experience is now very diverse from being out here.”

She’s now settled in Thames with three other doctors (coincidentally all from the North of England), enjoying the learning experience and better work/life balance New Zealand offers. 

“There’s part of me that might want to try a different specialty or hospital or area one day. But at the moment I’m enjoying things and learning lots.” 


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Dr Gabriella Paoloni talks about her experience moving from the UK to New Zealand during the Coronavirus pandemic

Moving to NZ as a doctor after Covid-19 | Medrecruit

Moving to NZ as a doctor after Covid-19

*It is the middle of a bitter UK Winter and Dr Roxanne Tajbakhsh is working in General Medicine in a jam-packed 410-bed hospital. The junior doctor has called in sick meaning she and the Registrar alone are tasked with taking care of 310 of these beds. She has a twelve-and-a-half-hour shift in front of her, and the staff shortage means she barely has time to grab a cup of coffee, let alone eat. It is the thought of the 310 patients who need her assistance that pushes Dr Tajbakhsh into ‘survival mode’ – to top it all off it is the winter of 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 outbreak. *

It was experiences like this in the UK that prompted Tajbakhsh to seek a new career and lifestyle in New Zealand.

### Early Life: 

Dr Roxanne Tajbakhsh was born in Leeds in the UK. This is where she grew up and where she went to medical school. Her family is from Iran which gave her the opportunity to grow up bi-lingual with the Middle East as a second home.
“I don’t come from a medical family at all, all my family is engineers. I remember wanting to get into medicine because I didn’t want to lose sleep over money, and I wanted to help people” 
Tajbakhsh found herself really interested in global humanitarian work and then came across Doctors Without Borders and that was when it all started. “I also watched a lot of Scrubs” she admitted laughing. 

### COVID-19 in the UK 

In her second year of placement, Tajbakhsh found herself working in the field of General Medicine in the middle of a UK winter, and smack-bang in the middle of COVID-19. 

“Boris Johnson’s response to COVID was like Lord Farquaad’s speech in Shrek ‘Some of you may die but that is a sacrifice I am willing to make.’” 

The cold weather, crumbling social services, and increase in respiratory illnesses add pressure to hospitals in the UK every winter, but in the winter of 2020 this escalated to the scale of a natural disaster. 

“Last year it was declared that they were using the same resources that they would in a natural disaster. For the beds and things like that. They were using that many resources!”

Tajbakhsh recalls one night being tasked with looking after 40 people across six different wards on her own. Another set of nights she was rostered on to a 410-bed hospital, 310 were all General Medicine (her remit). The junior doctor didn’t turn up, so Tajbakhsh and the Registrar had to take care of all 310 between the two of them. She was rostered on for twelve-and-a-half hours that night. 

“You just go into survival mode and I remember thinking how I was no longer giving good care. My soul’s purpose was to stop people from dying and that was it. I was just trying to do what I needed to do to make sure people don’t go downhill.” 

The long hours, stress, and lack of resources saw Tajbakhsh’s health and wellbeing begin to crumble. 

“You give up a lot. You give up your time. You start to give up your health. I couldn’t work out regularly and I wasn’t cooking well, because you just don’t have time — you are so exhausted from your shift that the 1-2 days off a week you get is just to recover from that exhaustion. People were taking annual leave just to break up their rota!” 
 
On top of all of this, the bad pay and the abuse and racism she was constantly suffering at work caused Tajbakhsh to begin to ask herself if all this was really worth it. 

“I was slowly getting to the point where I was like this isn’t worth it. You know? You’re giving up your health for COVID! I had to move out and I couldn’t even live with my family."

Rather than quitting the profession, Tajbakhsh set her sights on New Zealand; a country that she had her eyes on for quite some time and which, unlike the UK, had managed to control the COVID-19 outbreak. 

“It looked like a beautiful country, and the people seemed so nice! With the experience I had in the UK, my move changed from I’m going over there for a year to work to I’m going over there to live because after my experiences with COVID-19 I just didn’t want to do medicine in the UK anymore.”

 ### Coming to NZ 

Tajbakhsh finished in General Medicine in August 2020, worked in Ireland for a while, and then finally fulfilled her dream of coming to NZ in January 2021.

One of the first things Tajbakhsh noticed was that the people were so nice. “There was no abuse, no racism. The kiwis are the complete opposite they tell me ‘I am so glad you came’ and ‘welcome’.”

Tajbakhsh has said that although there have been some days when the lack of resources in New Zealand has reminded her of the UK, the difference here is that when this happens you are able to combat the problem. 

“If we are understaffed in New Zealand we work on getting some more doctors on shift. Here you can do that. In the UK you have no choice.” 

Tajbakhsh explained how a bad day in New Zealand is nothing compared to what she experienced in the UK. “Even when it gets tough in New Zealand. I remind myself how it’s still worse at home.” 
Even after living and working here for six months, Tajbakhsh is still blown away by the friendly and supportive atmosphere.
“I would go into the doctors' room and I would say ‘oh my gosh the people here are so nice!’ And my supervisor would say ‘Roxanne you say that after every patient!’”.


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The UK health system has been put under strain as a result of COVID-19. Dr Roxanne Tijbakhsh has made the move to New Zealand, where she is working as a doctor at a GP clinic and loving it! 

Escaping UK COVID-19 frontline and starting a new life in NZ

Dr Roxanne Tajbakhsh on escaping the COVID-19 frontline in the UK to live and work in New Zealand 

### Permanent jobs for limited registration doctors have taken a surprising turn in Australia.

Typically, international medical graduates (IMGs) have limited job opportunities in Australia. This is because there's restrictions on where these doctors can work. AHPRA (the medical board of Australia) governs this. 

But, since [Covid-19 hit](https://medrecruit.medworld.com/articles/moving-to-new-zealand-after-covid-19), we’ve seen an interesting trend in job opportunities for doctors with limited registration. 

First, let’s outline what limited registration means. Then, we'll look at why 2021 might be the best time for limited registration doctors to find work. 

## What’s limited registration? 

Limited registration is a type of medical registration for doctors. It allows doctors whose qualifications aren't from Australia or New Zealand to find work in Australia. Doctors who trained overseas are called [international medical graduates](https://medrecruit.medworld.com/articles/can-i-work-as-a-doctor-in-australia-and-new-zealand-medrecruit) (IMGs).

To be eligible, your medical school must be listed by the [Australian Medical Council](https://www.amc.org.au/assessment/pathways/self-check/list-of-medical-schools/) and the World Directory of Medical Schools. 

AHPRA assesses your eligibility. If you’re successful, it will grant one of four different types of limited registration. These are: 

•	Postgraduate training or supervised practise 

•	Area of need

•	Public interest

•	Teaching or research

These types are granted for different reasons, based on what Australia’s healthcare workforce needs. For example, limited registration based on an area of need means you’ll registered to work in a rural or remote location, where doctors are in demand. 

## How hard is it for limited registration doctors to find permanent jobs? 

Pre-Covid, finding good jobs was challenging for limited registration doctors. 

In most situations, you must practice under supervision and/or at specific locations and even at specific hospitals. 

This makes jobs for limited registration doctors, well, limited! Hospitals and clinics prefer to hire doctors without restrictions or supervision requirements. 

It’s much easier for Australia or New Zealand trained doctors to find work as a doctor in Australia. This is partly the intent of the different registration types: to hire local doctors before IMGs. 

Doctors who trained in comparable health countries (like the UK or USA) can also find work more easily. 

In short, it's tougher for international doctors with restrictions to find jobs, even if you work with a medical recruitment agency. You might have to wait some time until the perfect permanent role comes along.

## How has Covid-19 changed job availability for limited registration doctors? 

We’ve seen a shift in doctor job availability since Covid-19 changed the world. 

As the situation starts to settle down and we all adjust to a different way of working, it’s clear that doctor job vacancies have changed too. 

The most obvious change is that there is less movement. Doctors aren’t travelling to Australia for work as frequently. Doctors from comparable health countries like the USA and UK aren’t moving to Australia for work in the same volumes as before Covid-19. 

Doctors continue to be in demand across Australia. But there’s still not enough locally trained doctors to fill vacancies. 

For limited registration doctors this means: 

•	There’s less competition for roles than there was in 2019

•	There are more permanent job opportunities available for limited registration doctors 

Though limited registration doctors still need to jump through a few hoops to get their ideal job, it’s more possible than ever before.  

## Working as a doctor in Australia 
[Dr Nay Lwin Htet moved to Australia](https://medrecruit.medworld.com/articles/never-stop-dreaming-this-international-doctor-made-the-move-to-australia) from Malaysia in 2016. After years of struggling to find the right role, he signed up with Medrecruit in mid-2020. 

By January 2021, he had his ideal job and was training as a general practitioner. 

Like many doctors on limited registration, it took Dr Nay time and determination to get there. But with help from a medical recruitment company, he found his perfect job. 

If you are a doctor on limited registration in Australia, now is the perfect time to find your ideal job. Register with Medrecruit to get expert help getting there. 


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There’s now more permanent job opportunities for limited registration doctors in Australia. Find out why you should register to find a better job now. 

Covid-19 impacts limited registration  | Medrecruit

Surprising impact of Covid-19 on limited registration doctor jobs in Australia 

> I wish I’d found out about Medrecruit at that time. It may have made my life very different.
 
Making the move to Australia as an international doctor is a difficult one. There’s lots of rules, regulations and (expensive) exams in place which ensure an international doctor has all the skills and qualifications they need to work in Australia.  
 
Doctors who completed their medical degree and training overseas are known as International Medical Graduates or IMGs in the Australian health system.  
 
## Can international doctors work in Australia?  
To work in Australia, you have to make sure you’re eligible for medical registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) first. There’s a few different pathways, all of which have some complicated check-boxes to tick:  
 
The Competent Authority Pathway is usually an option for doctors (specialist or non-specialist) who’ve completed their primary degree and/or training at an approved competent authority in the UK, USA, New Zealand or Ireland.  
 
The Specialist Pathway is for overseas-trained specialists who satisfy all the experience, qualification and training requirements and standards set out by the Australian Medical Council and the World Directory of Medical Schools as a specialist or as someone who can fulfil a specialist level position in an area of need. There’s an (expensive) assessment to do, which will let you know if you’re eligible.  
 
Then there’s the Standard Pathway, for doctors who aren’t eligible for the other two pathways. But, again, they need to meet stringent requirements and their qualifications and training needs to be recognised by the Australian Medical Council and the World Directory of Medical Schools.  
 
It’s a complicated picture. British- and Irish-trained doctors often have the easiest time through the pathways because the health care systems of those countries are relatively similar to Australia’s health care system. Finding out if you’ll be eligible for registration is not something a medical recruitment agency can do for you.  
 
## Why it’s hard for IMGs to get medical registration in Australia 
Most doctors need to spend a lot of time (and money) perusing eligibility for registration. And eligibility doesn’t guarantee a job in Australia. We think IMGs are made of tough stuff and we’ve worked with fantastic doctors who’ve done their paperwork and made the move to Australia through hard work, determination and a lot of paperwork.  
 
One such doctor is Dr Nay Lwin Htet. He graduated from med school in his home country of Myanmar in 2009, but he and his wife (who is also a doctor) had to wait for government sponsorship to begin training.  
 
“For some reason, we had to wait for three years and nothing happened. As a young doctor, we had a huge dream of what we wanted to do. So, I started looking for alternative ways to progress my career.”  
 
He and his wife signed up to work in rural areas of Malaysia, but dreamed of working in Australia, New Zealand or America, so he began exploring his options early.    
 
“We both moved to a small town in East Malaysia (Sarawak) called Sarikei. We worked there for four years. It was a very small community. We became part of the community and after some time, we really did enjoy it – that made us delay migrating to Australia.”  
 
## Dr Nay’s story: finding a doctor job in Australia  
The couple needed to sit Australia Medical Council (AMC) exams to make the move and pursue the Standard Pathway. Dr Nay says his wife is the smart one – she passed part two of the exams before he did and moved to Perth, WA in July 2016. Dr Nay followed a few months later, but had only passed part one of the exam and found finding a job very difficult. He spent thousands of dollars on exam fees (one exam can cost as much as $3,600 – sometimes more) and he became depressed and very stressed.  
 
“I decided to start looking for a job. I sent hundreds of applications to hospitals around Australia. All I got was ‘No’. I wish I’d found out about Medrecruit at that time. It may have made my life very different.”  
 
After months of job hunting, Dr Nay almost gave up. By chance, he met a lady who worked for the HR department of the Royal Perth Hospital, she recommended that he sit an English Test as part of his registration requirements.  
 
“She is my life changer. I sat the English Test straight away and I went for an interview and got a job. I always send her a greeting at least once or twice a year because without her help, I may not have got to this stage that quickly.”  
 
He started work on Limited Registration. With this kind of registration, doctors can only work for a limited number of years – so Dr Nay still had to pass an AMC clinical exam. He moved to Hervey Bay for workplace-based assessment but had to wait a further nine months to get onto the program.  
 
He was there for two years and did complete his AMC journey – but spent many months away from his wife and their baby.  
 
2020 was supposed to be the year everything came together for Dr Nay, but like many 2020 plans, Covid-19 messed things up. Dr Nay decided to quit his job to look after his one-year-old son while his wife completed her training program, but he still needed to find work to supplement their income.   
 
“I signed up for a few locum agencies. They all are great but, I just couldn’t secure the right job. I spoke to one of my friends and he said, ‘just go with Medrecruit’, and I got in contact with Jake Martin.  
 
“Starting from the moment that I answered my phone, the whole team has been so amazing. They work hard for me, to get whatever shifts I want. They are very professional, very humble, they love their jobs. They are just beautiful people. I have been working with Medrecruit for almost six months now and I don’t need to worry about jobs.”  
 
We’re thrilled to have been a happy part of Dr Nay’s story. He demonstrates that through determination, the Australian dream isn’t impossible.  
 
Dr Nay will start his GP training in 2021 – best of luck! 


Dr Nay - moving from Britain to Australia

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Dr Nay found the move from Malaysia to Australia difficult, but friends and making contact with Medrecruit helped put his career and lifestyle back on track. 

IMG, Dr Nay's story of moving to Australia | Medrecruit  

Never stop dreaming: this international doctor made the move to Australia   

Coming from a cardiothoracic ITU and organ transplant centre in London, to practising medicine in rural New Zealand is quite a change. 

In late 2020, Dr Abdullah Khalid made the move from London, UK to work as a doctor in laid-back Taranaki. He’s noticed differences in the lifestyle, ways of working and approaches to medicine – particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Medrecruit gave him a call to find how things were going at his new placement in New Zealand. 

## What differences have you noticed, from a doctor’s perspective, between the UK and New Zealand?  

There are certain differences. The NZRDA (New Zealand Resident Doctors’ Association) are stronger here and they protect doctors’ rights and that’s nice. You’re provided meals at work which is a nice change! 

But that said, working in New Zealand, in a more rural location, is a struggle with some things. For example, you have to call across different hospitals to get things done. You have to call Auckland for some things, Waikato for some things then Christchurch for other things. It can get confusing and there’s a bit to get around in your head. 

Then, obviously, the guidelines are a little bit different and the drugs that are funded are a little bit different as well. Some of the drugs I’d use in the UK aren’t funded here, so I can’t prescribe that, and the antibiotic guideline is also stricter. So, that’s difficult to get your head around in the beginning. 

## How have you found the lifestyle change – from the UK to New Zealand? 
The lifestyle change is… much more outdoorsy, a sort of nature-orientated lifestyle where everyone is a lot more active. That’s quite nice. It’s not as multi-cultural as London, but it’s definitely more outdoorsy. 

## Have you been getting out into nature in New Zealand? 
Yeah, I have. I’ve been to Hawke’s Bay […] I haven't been to enough places to recommend anywhere but I think Hawke’s Bay is very nice. There’s great wine there!

## How did you find applying to work as a doctor in New Zealand?  
I found the process was quite easy because I worked with Medrecruit. They help you figure out what you can do and what you want and they help you look. Or, they look for you and send you a position and you can just tell them, “yes, I do think that position will be suitable for me”… then they send your CV, and help organise paperwork and interviews for you. 

Once they’ve got an offer for you, they help with your MCNZ application and they stick with you, that’s quite nice. Medrecruit can handle all of that and that makes it that bit easier. 

## How is your current placement going? 
I like the city. It’s more rural NZ medicine than I am used to and it took a while to get used to that. But I like the lifestyle outside of work. It’s up and down. It took a couple of weeks to get there, to adjust. 

Every hospital has different computer systems, so you expect that but it’s more about what services are available in that hospital and where to send them to, that’s the thing that takes the longest to learn. 

## Do you have any tips for doctors thinking about moving to New Zealand? 	
You have to be willing to be flexible with the you way work. I think it’s the same in any country – you have to be flexible in the work that you’re doing. 

I’d recommend, if you’re coming here to New Zealand, to have an open mind and to realise that if you’re coming from a different country, things are not going to be the same. 

## What was behind your decision to move to New Zealand? 
I just wanted to explore the country and the different culture. 
During these Covid-times, it’s been quite nice being here with the lesser restrictions here, compared to the UK. And I do think it is a beautiful country. 

Looking back, Medrecruit really does make the whole application process really easy for you. I was working with Sarah and Rachel and they do a good part of the work for you and that really helped.


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Dr Abdullah Khalid shares his experience of what it is like moving from London to small-town New Zealand as a doctor. 

Moving to New Zealand as a doctor - Dr Khalid | Medrecruit

What is it like moving to New Zealand to work as a doctor?  

As August of 2020 approached, and I realised I only had 6 months left of my core training in the Anaesthesia programme left, it dawned upon me that this was probably the time to start getting the ball rolling if I was really serious about moving to the other side of the world.

New Zealand has always fascinated me as a country, despite not having visited before (well not until I made the move here!). A combination of reasons including the great outdoors lifestyle, amazing natural scenery and unique history drew me here. In addition to this, if I am honest, New Zealand’s world-leading response to the Covid pandemic also helped convince me that this was a good place in the world to aim for.

So August 2020, I sent out a few emails to different hospitals around New Zealand. I either received replies saying that I had just missed the recruitment window, or that it would be a while until the next window. Therefore, I decided to approach Medrecruit after having read superb reviews about them online. I filled in the online form via their website and all that was left was to wait for the reply.

Wow! A day later Jess had emailed me to ask when a good time would be to call so we could have a chat to discuss exactly what sort of job I was looking for. My broad criteria were for a registrar post in Anaesthetics and at a hospital near some great ski fields!

Within a couple of weeks, Jess got in touch with me to say that Southland Hospital had read through my cover letter and CV and was keen to contact me for a telephone interview. The interview was very different to anything I have experienced back in the UK – my interviewer was very quick to say how impressed they were with my CV, and a big part of the interview was chatting about all the reasons I wanted to move to New Zealand… a keen interest in exploring the outdoors is vital I was told!

A week later… I was told I had the job! Despite the fact I was not able to start the job for another few months… Medrecruit negotiated on my behalf and ensured that I would be able to start the job after my UK training programme had finished. From this point on, Medrecruit truly were exceptional. There is a fair amount of paperwork to do, but Medrecruit guides you through the process and ensures that the hospital has all the information they need. Also, Medrecruit even put me in touch with an immigration advisor for a free consultation – this advice proved invaluable as I have spoken to countless doctors since being here who have ended up on a suboptimal visa!

The beginning of February 2021 arrived… and it was time for me to now get on the plane. Next stop, 2 weeks in an Auckland Managed Isolation Facility! 2 weeks in isolation was a small price to pay for the freedom that would follow! All the isolation staff were so helpful, and the food at the place I was staying was top notch. Fridays were the best – chips, burger and a complimentary beer!

The 2 weeks flew by and before I knew it, it was my first day at Southland Hospital, in Invercargill. It was not until I arrived here, that I really appreciated how fortunate I had been to have secured a job here. It is perfectly situated to many of the gems of New Zealand – Queenstown and the amazing ski fields (2 hours North), The Catlins (1 hour 15 mins East) and Fiordland (2 hours North West) just to name a few! Invercargill itself is cool too, with plenty of places to eat out and a really friendly community.

The job itself has been superb. Having worked here for 2 and a half months now, I was very quickly made to feel at home in the department, with very supportive consultant colleagues. Moreover, the whole hospital is a relatively small and close-knit community. At Southland Hospital, there are great relations between departments, and it is a lovely and very friendly place to work.

I would highly recommend Medrecruit to anyone who is looking to make the big move to the Southern Hemisphere! They helped me throughout the entire process and secured me the perfect job in New Zealand. Even since arriving here, Medrecruit has been in touch with me to check in with me and hear about how the job and life, in general, is going! Medrecruit gives a 5-star service and I would recommend them highly!


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Written by Dr Will Beech, Anaesthetic Registrar at Southland Hospital, New Zealand since February 2021

Moving Down Under – Why did I choose MedRecruit?

Moving Down Under – Why did I choose Medrecruit?

The first half of 2021 could be the right time for Kiwi doctors to move to Australia.  
 
New Zealand and Australia fared similarly during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and soon, as both governments talk vaccines and travel bubbles, movement between the two should become easier.  
 
Few New Zealand doctors know that they can live and work in Australia. Similar healthcare systems and regulatory requirements mean it’s relatively easy to jump the ditch.  
 
What’s more: there’s a shortage of doctors in Australia and only Kiwi doctors can easily fill this gap right now.  
 
## Can New Zealand-trained doctors work in Australia?  
 
As a New Zealand-trained doctor, you can work in Australia provided you meet requirements and register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA – Australia’s MCNZ).  
 
There’s a bit of paperwork to prepare first (like [CVs](/doctors/resources) and [references](/articles/organising-references-for-medical-roles-are-you-doing-it-right)), but once that’s complete the registration process takes on average 6–8 weeks. Getting the paperwork sorted and applying for registration is something Medrecruit helps with, alongside finding jobs that match your criteria.  
 
## Why is now the best time to move?  
 
The Covid-19 pandemic has made global travel difficult – even for essential workers like doctors. It’s deterred many from travelling for work.  
 
Australia relies on overseas-trained doctors to fill important roles right across the country, so there’s likely to be a larger shortage of doctors as fewer International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seek work in Australia.  
 
Conversely, we’ve noticed that locum and permanent doctor jobs in New Zealand are filling up more quickly than usual. It could be because many Kiwis living abroad returned to New Zealand with their families in the wake of the pandemic. Whatever the reason, finding a job in New Zealand is possible, but a bit more competitive than usual.  
 
Doctors who want to try living and working in Australia will therefore have the upper hand – it’s easier for them to move to Australia than for other ‘non-Aussie’ doctors and there’s more jobs and locations to choose from.  
 
## What are the perks for Kiwi doctors working in Australia?  
 
The main benefit for Kiwi doctors[ locuming in Australia](/articles/why-i-love-locuming-dr-lesina-nakhid-schuster) is the money. You could be earning three times more locuming in Australia than in New Zealand – as much as $2800 per day. It’s a fantastic opportunity to squirrel away some extra cash towards your first home or a bucket-list adventure.  
 
If you choose to locum, the opportunity to travel and explore parts of Australia is another draw card.  
 
Doctors taking on permanent roles in Australia can expect good remuneration too. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see how a slightly different healthcare system works, develop your skills and progress your career, without straying too far from good ol’ Aotearoa.  
 
## What do I need to do to live and work in Australia?   
 
As with many processes in medicine – there’s a bit of paperwork to get though. We can help you with this and point you in the right direction (the paperwork can vary depending on where you want to work in Australia and what your speciality is).  
 
You will need to arrange your own flights and travel to Australia. But, once there, accommodation and travel between placements is often covered. We’ve got dedicated teams in Australia and New Zealand so if you’ve ever stuck or need a hand, your personal Solutions Specialist is never more than a phone call away.  
 
Best of all, Medrecruit’s service is free for doctors.  
 
## Tips for Kiwi doctors thinking about moving to Australia 
 
Get in touch sooner rather than later. Now’s the time to start getting your paperwork ready if you want to enjoy late summer in Australia. 
 
Have some savings set aside for your move. You’ll need to pay for things like flights and your AHPRA application and if you plan to stay long-term, you might want to buy a car on arrival. That said, once you get to Australia it won’t take long to earn this back because pay rates are good.  
 
Think about how long you’d like to stay in Australia. It’s up to you, but we think you’ll want at least three months to make the most of your experience. Lots of doctors we work with locum for a year before deciding whether to stay long-term or to return to New Zealand.  
 
 
 
  

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Fancy enjoying late summer on an Australian beach? 2021 could be a great time for Kiwi doctors to jump the ditch

NZ to AU - when's the right time for doctors? | Medrecruit

Is now the right time for Kiwi doctors to move to Australia?  

Sarah Robertson is a licensed immigration adviser for New Zealand and part of Medrecruit’s [international placement team](/doctors/international[text](link)). It’s her job to help doctors trained overseas (in countries like the UK, Ireland and US) find jobs in New Zealand and Australia. 
  
As a licensed immigration adviser in New Zealand, she has a unique perspective on [opportunities for doctors ‘down under’](/articles/can-i-work-as-a-doctor-in-australia-and-new-zealand-medrecruit) in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. 
  
We asked her some commonly asked questions about working overseas, with recent events in mind. 
  
## Can doctors trained overseas still work in Australia and New Zealand?   
  
In the current situation, Immigration New Zealand have determined that medical practitioners are essential health workers. They are very much in need in New Zealand at the moment. Hospitals are still recruiting and even if we’re looking months down the line, the potential to secure jobs in New Zealand are really good. I’d say the market in New Zealand is generally more accessible in Australia as some doctors are restricted by their medical registration and where they can work – it comes down to individual situations. 
  
There’s so much information out there and it can be so complex that determining what is relevant to you is difficult. We’ve got so many years’ experience in dealing with this, I’d contact us first and trust us to direct you to the resources that are relevant to you. 
  
As this situation is evolving on a daily basis, we’ll work with you, when you’re ready to move to see how to best navigate this changing landscape to get you into the country and ready to start work. 
  
## Are there any specialities or grades in high demand?  
  
In terms of specialities, those in need include [psychiatrists](/articles/is-psychiatry-a-dying-field), radiologists, O&G, consultants (general medicine), ophthalmology, respiratory, emergency medicine – those are all really good ones. 
  
Ones that are usually less easy to find jobs for include paediatrics, cardiology, general medicine, plastics and anaesthetics. 
  
## Can MedRecruit help a doctor’s family move too?  
  
Yes. We work with a lot of couples – especially couples who are a couple of doctors! We place a lot of them and hospitals really like those set ups. 
  
Generally, for more senior doctors with families, we help the doctor find a job and then the family are able to accompany them. We can’t help anyone find a job in something that’s non-medical, but we can help with almost everything else. 
  
## What is immigration and hiring like at the moment, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic?  
  
It’s a fast-changing situation. What we’re doing is staying on top of the new developments as they happen. There are routes for essential workers to secure visas and their family are allowed to accompany them (at this point). To be honest… there are a few bureaucratic hoops that didn’t exist before and that is making things a little bit more difficult. 
  
Other considerations, like being quarantined for two weeks on arrival, I think we can anticipate will stay around for a while. 
  
But what I can also say is: we’re here to do everything we can to help make that process is as smooth as possible. Honestly, this has changed every day for the past four weeks, but we’re keeping up with these changes all the time. 
  
## If a doctor is thinking about moving to New Zealand later this year, or early in 2021, what can they do now to prepare? Is it still worth talking to Medrecruit?  
  
Definitely! We’re always looking six-to-twelve months in advance. For junior doctors, that’s usually around six months, for senior it’s more towards twelve months. If you’re considering making the move in the next twelve months or so, I’d say get in touch now. We’re really keen to start working with you sooner than we need to, so we can get everything ready and in place. 
  
There is some paperwork that can be done now, but the more important thing is making that initial contact so that we can be on the lookout for the right job for you. 
  
## How does the process work?  
  
Just about always, to secure medical registration and a visa, you need a job first. So, we’ll find them a job (finding a great job is part of what takes time). In terms of processing time for registration and visas, even during ‘good days’ we allow a minimum of three months for that for juniors and six months for seniors. 
  
This is very much for people who are looking ahead and thinking about making the move at the end of this year or the beginning of next. I’d highly recommend they get in touch now. 
  
## What is the best time to get in touch?  
  
What I’m telling my doctors is that we talk today for the first time in the hope of securing a job and getting here in six-to-eight months. We don’t know what is going to happen with Covid, but all of the hospitals we are working with are working on the anticipation that they will still need doctors in six months’ time. So, we want to be on the front foot with that and we want to help them fill those needs when they need it… not six months retrospectively. 
  
## So… New Zealand will still need doctors?  
  
That’s it. We don’t see that changing at all. Certainly in the New Zealand and Australian markets because there are many international doctors who were working here who have now returned home. This has probably, in the long run, created a lot more jobs down the line. We might not be seeing them just yet, but I think we’re going to see more jobs coming out in the future. 
  
**Are you an internationally trained doctor looking for more information on making the move? Register today and one of our dedicated specialists, like Sarah, will be in touch. **
 

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Our immigration adviser and international recruitment specialist looks at opportunities for doctors in New Zealand post-Covid. 

Moving to New Zealand after Covid-19 | Medrecruit  

Moving to New Zealand after Covid-19

Are you looking for doctor jobs in New Zealand and Australia? Look no further. Medrecruit is a medical recruitment company based in Australia and New Zealand with more jobs than you can shake a visa at. 
 
But to narrow down your job search, you’ll first need to choose: Australia or New Zealand? Often lumped together on the world stage (including [this awkward moment](https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/82275079/flag-foulup-fails-to-dampen-john-keys-testing-trip-to-europe-and-indonesia) when New Zealand’s then Prime Minister was put in front of the Aussie flag), the two countries are actually quite different in terms of lifestyle and the kind of doctor jobs you’ll come across.  
 
Choosing the best place to live depends on what sort of doctor job you’re after, what kind of lifestyle you want and how much you’d like to get paid. 
  
### So, where should you focus your doctor job search?  

## Doctor job opportunities 
Australia is bigger, a lot bigger, than New Zealand. Physically, it’s a whopping 7.6 million km2 with a population of 24.6 million, however, much of the population lives along the coastlines. This means Australia has a greater number and range of doctor job opportunities. From the major cities like Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne to rural towns, the kind of doctor job you get could vary wildly, even within the same specialty.  
 
While the big city jobs may be comparable (and therefore more attractive) to doctor jobs in countries like the UK, quotas mean that you’ll probably have to work in a rural community or regional area first (this is known as a DWS area). 
 
New Zealand is far smaller, it’s roughly the same size as the UK, but with a population of just 4.6 million (compare that to 66 million in the UK). There’s fewer doctor jobs overall, but the range of opportunities is surprising: New Zealand has one of the highest proportions within the OECD of international medical graduates in its medical workforce (around 43%). New Zealand’s health system relies on overseas trained doctors, so while the training systems between NZ and Australia are relatively similar, it could be argued that getting a job in NZ is easier (and there’s no rural area quota). 
 
## Doctors’ Lifestyles  
Doctors looking for a better lifestyle is one of the most common reasons we see overseas trained doctors looking for jobs in Australia. There’s long sandy beaches, great surf, hot summer days and vibrant cities balanced with incredible wildlife and natural beauty… there’s a lot to like about Aussie! However, you’re more likely to get a doctor job in a rural or regional area first. This means that you might not get to spend weekends at Bondi and evenings at the Sydney Opera House at first. But there’s a lot on offer from these smaller communities. We’ve worked with loads of doctors who’ve loved travelling off the beaten path, working with rural communities and discovering a different side to Australia. Check out our interview with [Dr Kodali](/articles/pursuing-the-full-time-locuming-dream-dr-kiren-kodali-s-story), who uses quieter rural airports to fly small planes on his weekends. 
 
In New Zealand, there’s only a few major cities (think Wellington, Auckland, Christchurch…). While city [life in New Zealand](/articles/lifestyle-of-doctors-in-the-uk-vs-nz) is great, like Australia, you’d be wise to widen your doctor job search to rural areas. Medrecruit doctor Dr Dolores del Estal spent a year travelling New Zealand’s rural areas and tourist hotspots with her Great Dane dog while taking on locum work. Arguably, Australia has the edge when it comes to traditional arts and cultural offerings, but if you love the great outdoors, you’d be a fool not to consider New Zealand’s rugged beauty. Cruise Milford Sound, take up paragliding or tackle the Coast-to-Coast multisport race… game on! 
 
## Doctor salaries 
Remuneration in both New Zealand and Australia is relatively good. On average, pay is higher in Australia than New Zealand (and the cost of living is higher in New Zealand), but most doctors find the pay in both countries suitable. 
 
Compared to New Zealand, [Australia’s healthcare system](/articles/how-public-health-care-works-in-australia-and-new-zealand-medrecruit) operates more like a private healthcare system. Pay and career opportunities here are higher, but some doctors don’t like the fact that patient access to care has more financial barriers. 
 
Despite New Zealand’s health care system being more socially-driven, it has fewer operating pressures than the UK’s NHS (the smaller, healthier population helps too). 
 
## Should you work in New Zealand or Australia?  
Ultimately, the decision to move to New Zealand or Australia comes down to what kind of lifestyle you want; do you want good money and the luxuries of the city, or do you want to work fewer hours so you can spend more time mountain biking? If you’re still not sure, talk to a member of our team – we’ve got offices on the Gold Coast, Australia and Queenstown, New Zealand. 
 

Australia vs NZ which is better for doctors 

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Researching life as a doctor Down Under: is Australia or New Zealand better for you, your career and your family?

AU vs NZ : Which is better for doctor jobs? | Medrecruit

Australia vs New Zealand: Which is better for doctor jobs? 

Doctors and health professionals moving from the UK’s National Health System to Australia’s Medicare or New Zealand’s public health service will notice that the public health systems in each country work differently. This affects how you are paid and changes how your patients are likely to access the public health system. To help you understand the broader differences between the three systems, here’s an outline of how public health services work in [Australia and New Zealand](/articles/can-i-work-as-a-doctor-in-australia-and-new-zealand-medrecruit). 
 
## Medicare 
Australia’s [Medicare](https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/%20Parliamentary_Library/Publications_Archive/archive/medicare) system is split into two parts; the [Medicare Benefits Schedule](http://www.mbsonline.gov.au/internet/mbsonline/publishing.nsf/Content/Home) (MBS) and the Pharmaceutical Benefits System (PBS). MBS provides full or partially covered medical services to anyone who holds a Medicare card. PBS reduces the cost of medication for the public. 
 
It is funded by Australian taxpayers and Australian citizens. Residents and those from a country with a reciprocal health agreement (like the UK) also have access to Medicare services. However, Medicare does not cover all medical services so many people take out private healthcare insurance. Patients are either bulk billed (cost is covered by Medicare) or privately billed (charged a fee, which is often higher than the Medicare rebate). Mixed billing is when the patient is charged the entire fee upfront but can claim a rebate from Medicare. 
 
Any service which is bulk billed or covered by Medicare will need to be billed with an item number, which will have a scheduled fee attached. However, doctors who are not working at a bulk billing practice are free to set their own fees. The patient will pay the difference between the scheduled fee and the fee you have charged. If a service does not have an item number, the patient will need to pay the full amount out of their own pocket. 
 
If you work as a [GP in Australia](/articles/gp-salary-australia-2020-update-medrecruit), this will affect how you are paid. GPs are not on a salary, instead, they receive a percentage of the billings (typically around 65%). After hours work often carries a higher fee, so GPs can significantly boost their income by undertaking extra after-hours work. 
  
## New Zealand Public Health System 
New Zealand’s [public health system](https://www.health.govt.nz/new-zealand-health-system) is funded by taxpayers, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) and government agencies. Many people also take out private insurance and some services are paid for out of pocket. The [NHS and New Zealand’s health system](/articles/why-are-british-and-irish-g-ps-are-in-demand-in-australia-and-new-zealand) are broadly similar, but the New Zealand public system has more interaction with its private counterpart. 
 
Essential health care services are free for all New Zealanders and people in New Zealand on a work permit valid for two years or longer. Visitors from Australia and the UK can access some services under their respective reciprocal agreements. Alongside the public system, private healthcare offers access to private hospitals for the treatment of both urgent and non-urgent conditions (excluding Accident and Emergency Care). 
 
The public system works on a community-orientated model, with three key sectors; District Health Boards (DHBs), Primary Health Care and Primary Health Organisations (PHOs). DHBs are government funded and are responsible for providing and funding health and disability services in their district whereas PHOs co-ordinate local primary health services, bringing together doctors, nurses and other health professionals. Primary health care includes first level services such as general practice, mobile nursing and community health services – note that not all are publicly funded. 
 
The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is another element of the system. ACC is the government’s personal injury scheme which helps pay for medical and treatment fees, rehabilitation costs and residential care caused by an accident or injury. 
 
The private healthcare system in New Zealand often compliments the public service by providing non-urgent and elective treatments. However, there are many private accident, emergency and medical clinics, which provide out-of-hours services outside of the public system. Specialists often work across both the private and public services and patients commonly switch between the two as well – those that can afford it often elect private care to avoid the long wait times for non-essential health services.   



Though there are differences between the UK, Australian and New Zealand healthcare systems, the broad similarities make it easier for doctors to move between them. Differences between hospital computer systems, different accents and different pharmaceutical brand names can be a challenge, but it's one many of the doctors we work with take in their stride.  
 

doctor working - public healthcare in AUS and NZ 

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Health professionals moving from the UK will notice that the public health systems of Australia and New Zealand work differently to the NHS. Here’s how they work.

How public health care works in Australia and NZ | Medrecruit

How public healthcare works in Australia and New Zealand

British and Irish trained GPs are in demand across both Australia and New Zealand – but what’s driving the trend? 
  
Working as a doctor overseas is a lifestyle many physicians never regret. The opportunity to live and work in another country broadens horizons and develops medical skills. For British and Irish doctors, Australia and [New Zealand](/articles/moving-to-new-zealand-after-covid-19) are popular choices – the lifestyle ‘down under’ regularly ranks among the [best in the OECD](http://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/#/11111111111) and the health systems are comparative. Another reason many doctors consider working in Australia and New Zealand is that British and Irish doctors are in demand. 
  
## What’s driving the trend? 
Both countries currently have a shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas. Shortages in a number of specialities fluctuate, but typically, qualified and experienced doctors from health systems like the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and Ireland’s Health Service Executive/Feidhmeannacht na Seirbhíse Sláinte (HSE) can find good employment opportunities. This is because the health systems and qualifications between the four countries are broadly similar, so it is easier for governing bodies to ensure training requirements and other essential standards have been met (for a brief explanation of pathways, read this post). 
  
It’s general practitioners who are most in demand. In New Zealand, the Royal College of GPs conducted a general practice workforce study which highlighted that 34% of GPs (excluding registrars) intend to retire within five years and 57% within the next 10 years. More than half of GPs in New Zealand are more than 52 years old. International medical graduates are essential in filling this looming gap, particularly in New Zealand’s scenic rural towns and regions; currently, 46% of rural GPs in New Zealand trained overseas. 
  
In Australia, experts have suggested that general practice has been less popular with medical students and young doctors in recent years. The Australian Medical Association’s president, Dr Tony Bartone expressed concern in a July 2019 media release that GP training places were going unfilled: “Since 2015, we have seen a 20 per cent fall in the number of applications for GP training, and a six per cent drop in the number of first year GP training posts filled,” he said. Again, it’s [rural areas](/articles/dr-henry-kurtze-s-experience-as-a-locum-in-rural-australia) where the shortage is more obvious – some have suggested that outmoded stereotypes of rural GP work linger and that there’s not enough training programmes based in rural areas to help dispel the myths. However, a first-of-its-kind [national-scale study](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ajr.12577) published in October 2019 reported that rural junior doctors were significantly more satisfied with their work-life balance than their metropolitan counterparts. 
  
## Great general practitioners will always be in demand  
Both the Australian and New Zealand governments have announced initiatives to increase the number of locally trained doctors, as well as incentives to encourage new doctors to stay in general practice by improving remuneration and benefits. However, the issue isn’t new and Australia and New Zealand certainly aren’t the only countries to report shortages within their health systems. As population numbers grow and life expectancy increases around the world, good doctors will always be in demand. 
  
Medical recruitment agencies like Medrecruit exist to help match great doctors seeking new experiences with doctor job vacancies. [Better work-life balance](/articles/lifestyle-of-doctors-in-the-uk-vs-nz) and career advancement are just some of the reasons British and Irish doctors we’ve worked with have moved to Australia or New Zealand. 
 

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Find out what is driving the demand for British and Irish GPs in Australia and New Zealand

UK GP's are in demand in AU and NZ - here's why | Medrecruit   

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