GP Registrars with an interest in rural general practice can apply to do an additional year of GP training. Training posts in Advanced Rural Skills are tailored to meet the learning needs of GP Registrars planning a career in rural General Practice and offer intensive training in procedural skills and other disciplines which have a particular relevance for GPs working in a rural and remote setting.

Advanced Rural Skills Posts are available in a number of disciplines.

• Aboriginal Health (6 or 12 months)
• Anaesthetics (12 months)
• Child and Adolescent Health
• Emergency Medicine (6 months)
• Mental Health
• Obstetrics (12 months)
• Palliative Care (6 or 12 months)
• Royal Flying Doctor Service
• Small Town General Practice
• Surgery (12 months)

GP Registrars may also choose to develop an individual ARSP which meets their own specific interests and learning needs which requires you to submit an application and learning plan to the Rural Censor of the RACGP. If you are interested in this option please discuss this with your Training Advisor.

Who is eligible to do Advanced Rural Skills training?

Positions in ARSPs are limited and preference will be given to GP Registrars with a genuine and proven interest in a career in rural General Practice. During the annual placement cycle, GP Registrars apply to WAGPET for an ARSP placement and candidates will be interviewed to determine the best applicant for the post.

Talk to your Training Advisor

If you are interested in applying for a placement in an Advanced Rural Skills Post, you should start by talking it over with your Training Advisor or contacting the WAGPET Rural Advisor, Dr Mike Eaton.

How to Apply for an ARSP

• Complete a placement preference form indicating your wish to undertake ARSP training. Submit to WAGPET with a current CV.
• All ARSP candidates will be interviewed at WAGPET. 
• Outcome of interviews will be sent to all candidates in June  including details of how to confirm the ARSP training position with the respective hospital / facility administration.
• GP Registrars are required to arrange the necessary paperwork with the training post to commence the ARSP placement.