International medical graduates - challenges faced in the Australian training program.
BACKGROUND
Few studies have examined the challenges faced by international medical graduate (IMG) registrars and their supervisors in the Australian General Practice Training Program. This study explored registrar and supervisor perspectives on these challenges.


METHODS
Five IMG registrars and 10 experienced supervisors were interviewed between August 2006 and March 2007.


RESULTS
Six themes were identified: language and communication, cultural issues, understanding the Australian health care system, clinical knowledge and its application, consulting styles and registrar support.


CONCLUSIONS
Addressing the issues identified in this study can provide an easier transition for IMG registrars and help them reach their full potential.
McDonnell
Louise
L
Hazelbrook General Practice, Blue Mountains, New South Wales. lmcd@pnc.com.au
Usherwood
Tim
T
D001315:Australia; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003142:Communication; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D005550:Foreign Medical Graduates; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires