Why UK Doctors Should NOT Go to Australia | The Ultimate Guide

Summary

In this video, two doctors discuss the challenges of working in Australia as medical professionals. While they appreciate the pay, beaches, and lifestyle, they highlight the downsides, such as long work hours, isolation from friends and family due to time differences, and costly travel back home. They also talk about rigid annual leave policies, frequent rotations to unfamiliar departments, and the competitive nature of training programs. Additionally, the harsh Australian environment, with dangerous animals and extreme weather, adds to the list of disadvantages.

Takeaways

• 😀 Both Kieran and his friend, also named Kieran, are doctors discussing the pros and cons of working as doctors in Australia.
• 🌍 One major disadvantage is the long distance from friends and family, with significant time differences, making communication difficult.
• 💼 While working in Australia, most time is spent working rather than traveling, which can surprise those expecting more leisure time.
• 🏝️ Annual leave is often grouped into one block, making it difficult to take short vacations throughout the year.
• 🚑 Relieving terms require doctors to cover different departments, which can be stressful due to constant rotations and lack of familiarity with each department.
• ✈️ Traveling to and from Australia is expensive and time-consuming, often taking 24-30 hours for a round trip.
• 💰 Housing prices in Australia, especially in cities like Sydney, are very high, comparable to London prices.
• 🐍 Australia has many dangerous animals, such as saltwater crocodiles, jellyfish, sharks, snakes, and spiders, which pose significant risks.
• 🗺️ Rotations for doctors can involve moving to remote locations like Tasmania, adding more logistical challenges.
• 📚 Taking a career break in Australia can affect one's chances of getting into certain medical training programs back in the UK, especially if not used for career-advancing activities.

Q & A

What are some common misconceptions about working as a doctor in Australia?

Many people believe that working as a doctor in Australia involves frequent travel, minimal work, and a high salary. However, the reality is that doctors spend most of their time working, especially on a work visa, leaving less time for travel.

What is one of the major disadvantages of working in Australia as a doctor?

One major disadvantage is the distance from friends and family. The time difference can make communication difficult, and traveling back to the UK is both time-consuming and expensive.

How is annual leave typically structured for doctors in Australia?

Annual leave in Australia is often grouped into one block within the 'relieving term,' rather than being spread out throughout the year. Doctors typically get four to five weeks of leave, but it must be taken all at once, making it harder to take short breaks.

Is it possible for partners or friends to work the same shifts in Australia?

Yes, in some cases, such as in emergency departments, partners or friends can be placed on the same rotas, allowing them to have the same days on and off.

What is the 'relieving term,' and why do some doctors dislike it?

The relieving term is a period during which doctors fill in wherever they are needed. It can be frustrating because doctors are often rotated through various departments, sometimes for short periods, making it difficult to settle into a specific role.

Does working in Australia affect your chances of getting into training programs in the UK?

It depends on the training program. Some specialties may penalize applicants for taking too many years between foundation training and applying for registrar posts. Doctors are expected to enhance their CVs during this time with publications, presentations, and other achievements.

How expensive is housing in Australia for doctors?

Housing can be very expensive, particularly in cities like Sydney. Prices are described as 'London-esque,' and areas like Bondi Beach are particularly costly.

What wildlife dangers might doctors face in Australia?

Australia is home to dangerous wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles, jellyfish, sharks, venomous snakes, and spiders. These dangers can be found in various environments, including beaches, the reef, and deserts.

What are the challenges of rotating through different specialties during the relieving term?

Doctors may find it difficult to adjust to different specialties quickly. They often lack specialized knowledge for departments they are rotated into and need time to learn new processes, making the constant change challenging.

How competitive is it to get permanent residency and formal training in Australia?

It can be very competitive, particularly in desirable cities like Melbourne. Doctors may have to rotate to other regions, such as Tasmania, making it difficult to settle in one place.