A new 20 working day timeframe will apply for applications from specialists trained in Britain, Ireland and Australia. File photo. Photo: 123RF
Overseas doctors trained in certain specialties will have their applications to practice in New Zealand fast-tracked from next month.
The Medical Council has just announced a new 20 working day timeframe for applications from specialists trained in Britain, Ireland and Australia.
Areas of medicine include anaesthesia, dermatology, emergency medicine, general practice, internal medicine, pathology and psychiatry.
Until now, specialists have needed to have their qualifications, training and experience assessed by medical colleges, which can take three to six months.
This follows a similar move in Australia, which took effect today to remove "regulatory barriers" for overseas trained doctors.
It has not been without controversy, with the Royal Australian College of GPs warning the "rushed" process and lack of checks and balances could jeopardise patient safety.
But Medical Council of New Zealand chair Dr Rachelle Love said fast-track registration would speed up approvals while allowing colleges to focus on "more complex cases that require their expertise".
"Our goal is to protect public health and safety while supporting the healthcare workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand," she said.
"This fast-track registration provides a faster route for qualified specialists to join our medical workforce while maintaining the high standards that New Zealanders expect."