Central Victoria's largest private medical practice Healthworks has issued contracts for the first three doctors to come to Bendigo under its new overseas GP recruitment program.
Healthworks managing director Alan Hall said since the program was announced last November, Hallis Healthcare and other medical recruitment companies working on the project had contacted doctors in Ireland, Britain and Europe.
“Along with the three contracts issued, our representatives are also in current negotiations with a further nine GPs interested in strengthening the high standard of patient care at Healthworks in Kangaroo Flat,” he said.
“We anticipate an early signing of contracts with three UK-trained and qualified doctors and finalisation of their travel arrangements to take up practice in Bendigo.
“An immigration law solicitor has been engaged to assist with securing the necessary visas and permits required for the GPs to live and practice here.”
Mr Hall said applicants for the initial Bendigo appointments were also being assessed by a leading Australian medico-legal practitioneer.
“The experienced and distinguished GP and university lecturer is providing a critical analysis of applicant doctors, checking their credentials and ensuring their suitability to meet the high standards required for Australia,” Mr Hall said.
Mr Hall said he was delighted with the response from overseas GPs in the two months since the project, which aims to recruit 16 GPs, was launched.
“We are recruiting doctors who will have a long-term commitment to our vibrant city and who will allow our city to grow with proper health services," he said.