Workforce has been identified as a key Program for the Division. General Practice Alliance South Gippsland takes a multi focused approach to recruiting GPs to the area. In addition to Government recruitment schemes the Division actively supports and recruits GPs via the following program components:
Organising educational activities to assist GPs in accumulating CPD and Clinical Audit points is one aspect of the Division’s continuing commitment to its members. A needs analysis determines the program for the triennium and educational activities are conducted monthly for the GPs and their spouse to attend. The locations for the education sessions are rotated from one area of South Gippsland to another so everyone has the opportunity to see their neighbouring towns. These events prove to be both educational and fun social events.
Look on our website calendar to see what events are coming up.
An important focus of the Division’s activities is to assist with the recruitment and retention of GPs and their families. The Division works closely with the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria to arrange a “meet and greet” opportunity for every new GP and their family so they are welcomed and given a friendly face to contact if they need assistance settling in.
The Division also holds regular social outings for GP Spouses and families to assist with forming social networks and provide support where appropriate. This is linked in with the programs offered by the Rural Medical Family Network.
The Division involves Gippsland Education and Training Registrars and medical students by inviting them to all educational events and making them feel welcome in our division. The Division is involved with getGP which meets at the Division on a monthly basis.
The Division works with Monash University School of Rural Health to host medical students at practices, as they do rural placements each year. The Division hosts an informal get together at the Division for participating students to discuss the work of the Division and to provide opportunities for an ongoing relationship.
Practices form strong relationships with registrars and encourage them to come back and work in South Gippsland where appropriate.
The Division works with Monash University School of Rural Health by providing a GP to speak to secondary school students about being a rural GP. Some members of the Division take on work experience students to give them greater insight into the profession.
We have an orientation kit to working in General Practice in South Gippsland. If you would like a copy please contact the Workforce Program Coordinator, Rhett McLennan on 03 5674 0900 or r.mclennan@gpasouthgippsland.com.au
More information about recruitment initiatives can be gained from Rural Workforce Agency Victoria website at http://www.rwav.com.au.
