��TV Regulations Section D

��TV Regulations

Section D – Assessment of Specialist International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

Contents

Section D – Assessment of Specialist International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

D1 Assessment of Specialist International Medical Graduates Applying for Recognition as a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Australia

D1.1 The Application Process

D1.1.1 Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs) seeking recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia must apply directly to the College using the prescribed application form.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, June 2014]

��TV will assess applicants via the following SIMG Pathways and scopes of practice:

AoN (Australia only)
Generalist Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Subspecialist and Common Scope in one of the five recognised scope of practice:
Gynaecological Oncology (CGO)
Maternal Fetal Medicine (CMFM)
Obstetrical & Gynaecological Ultrasounds (COGU)
Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (CREI)
Urogynaecology (CU)
Academic and common scope (Generalist Obstetrics and Gynaecology only)
Dual assessment of General Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Subspecialist and Common Scope in one of the five RANZCOG recognised scopes of practice

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.1.2 Fees for required during the application stage or during time as an SIMG are managed in the Training and Associated Fees Policy.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D1.1.3 Applications for assessment may be made by:

D1.1.3.1 Australian graduates who have undertaken post-graduate specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology overseas;

D1.1.3.2 SIMGs who have previously applied for assessment as per D1.1.3.1 via either the AMC or RANZCOG who request to be reassessed as per D1.7 and D3.7.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.1.4 Applicants applying for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D1.1.1 must:

D1.1.4.1 hold a primary qualification in medicine and surgery from a training institution recognised by both the AMC and the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS); and

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.1.4.2 have completed formal post-graduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology and have obtained specialist recognition from a recognised college or equivalent body and provide evidence of specialist recognition;

D1.1.4.3 have participated in a continuing professional development program since obtaining a specialist qualification;

D1.1.4.4 for applications submitted on or after 1 January 2015, demonstrate that they have the necessary English language skills for the purposes of registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and in accordance with Regulation D1.1.4; and

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.1.4.5 for applications submitted on or after 1 July 2016, demonstrate recency of practice in the relevant scope of practice, generalist obstetrics and gynaecology, academic and common scope of practice or subspecialist and common scope of practice, within the twelve (12) months prior to making application for assessment, in accordance with the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.1.4.6 for applications submitted on or after 1 July 2016, nominate for assessment in one of the three scopes of practice: generalist obstetrics and gynaecology, academic and common scope of practice or subspecialist and common scope of practice and meet an additional requirement for assessment in that scope of practice as specified in D1.2.3.3 and D1.2.3.4.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.1.5 English Language Proficiency

D1.1.5.1 The requirement for English language skills must be at the level expected by the Medical Board of Australia’s registration standard for English language skills.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.1.6 Applications must include all required documentation as specified by the College. An Incomplete Application fee shall be payable for incomplete applications.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, June 2014]

D1.1.7 The application for assessment will lapse if payment, referee reports and/or documentation remain outstanding after six (6) months from the date of receipt of the application for assessment.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, June 2014]

D1.2 Preliminary Review

D1.2.1 The SIMG Preliminary Review fee must be processed before assessment can commence. Three (3) written referee reports must be received at the College prior to interview.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.2.2 Each application will be assessed against the requirements of the FRANZCOG for comparability to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology.

D1.2.3 The Preliminary Review will be conducted by at least one member of the assessment panel, appointed by the RANZCOG SIMG Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.2.3.1 In order to be considered for interview, it is generally expected that applicants will have completed a specialist training program in obstetrics and gynaecology which meets the following criteria:

The program was a structured post-graduate course of at least four (4) years duration with published standards that are comparable to that of the FRANZCOG Training Program.
The training program must cover the areas as defined in the RANZCOG Common Scope of Practice.
The specialist post-graduate program incorporated a documented and systematic in- training assessment system incorporating regular, on-going formative and summative performance-based assessments and other assessments comparable to those undertaken by FRANZCOG trainees.
Entry into the program was via a competitive process of selection or recruitment.
The program was accredited against published standards by an external body and was subjected to assessment for reaccreditation at regular intervals.

[Revised and ratified by the Education Standards Committee, July 2025]

D1.2.3.2 Applicants who completed the training programs leading to the qualifications specifically listed on the RANZCOG website, as approved by the Board for this purpose, will be deemed eligible for interview without the need to demonstrate that their specific training program met the above criteria.

D1.2.3.3 In order to be considered for interview, applicants who nominate for assessment in the academic and common scope of practice must demonstrate that they:

currently hold an academic appointment of at least 0.5 EFT at professorial level at an Australian or Aotearoa New Zealand university or are on an academic pathway that would be reasonably expected to lead to an appointment at this level in an Australian or Aotearoa New Zealand University;
have completed a PhD level research degree at a THES top 400 University; and
have had at least forty (40) peer-reviewed publications (PubMed) following completion of the PhD, within the preceding five (5) years.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D1.2.3.4 In order to be considered for interview, applicants who nominate for assessment in the subspecialist and common scope of practice must demonstrate they hold a recognised subspecialist qualification from a recognised College or national certifying body and subsequent experience in one of the five recognised RANZCOG Subspecialties in accordance with D3.1.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.2.3.5 Prior to the Preliminary Review Outcome being issued, the Applicant will be provided with feedback via the Summary of Preliminary Review (SPR) form.

The Applicant has twenty-one calendar days from the date of receipt of the SPR to respond using the applicable RANZCOG forms. Following the twenty-one-day timeframe RANZCOG will issue the Preliminary Review Outcome.

If feedback is provided by the Applicant, the SIMG Assessor(s) will consider the submission can issue a final Preliminary Review Outcome.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.2.4 The outcome of the Preliminary Review will be either

D1.2.4.1 ‘not comparable’. If an Applicant requires more than twenty-four months of upskilling to be considered partially comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the recognised subspecialties; or Academic and Common Scope specialist, then the applicant is classified as not comparable, or;

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.2.4.2 ‘Eligible Interview’. If an Applicant is eligible for interview then an interview will explore in greater details the Applicant’s qualifications, training, experience, recency of practice in the specialty, CPD and non-technical professional attributes including the Applicant’s understanding of the importance of culturally safe and respectful practice for the community, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to determine comparability on one of RANZCOG’s recognised SIMG pathways.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.2.5 Applicants assessed as ‘not comparable to an Australian-trained Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology’ will be advised that if they wish to proceed to FRANZCOG they must apply to enter the College training program at Year 1, having met the necessary entry requirements.

D1.2.6 Applicants assessed as ‘eligible for interview’ pursuant to D1.2.4.2 above will be assessed in accordance with Regulation D1.3.

D1.2.6.1 Applicants will be advised that if they do not attend an interview within 12 months of receipt of invitation to interview, the application will lapse.

D1.2.6.2 Applicants may not attend an interview until such time as the Primary Source Verification of their primary medical qualification, their highest specialist O&G qualification, and any additional qualification used as part of the SIMG assessment. If applying to the subspecialist and common scope of practice pathway, their highest subspecialty qualification, have been verified.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.3 The Interview

D1.3.1 The interview will be conducted by a panel of SIMG Assessors, appointed by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee, pursuant to that Committee’s Terms of Reference.

D1.4 Outcome of the Interview

D1.4.1 For applicants applying for assessment in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice the SIMG Assessment Committee will make one of the following determinations:

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2019]

D1.4.1.1 The applicant’s training and experience is such that they are Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice.

Applicants assessed as Substantially Comparable are required to meet the requirements of Regulation D1.5 in order to be awarded FRANZCOG.

D1.4.1.2 The applicant’s training and experience, while not such that they are considered Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice, is such that they may be considered to be Partially Comparable, at least at the level of a Year 5 (i.e. end of Basic Training period) RANZCOG trainee.

Applicants assessed as Partially Comparable are required to meet the training assessment and administrative requirements of Regulation D1.6 in order to be awarded FRANZCOG.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, April 2020]

D1.4.1.3 The applicant’s training and experience is such that they are neither partially nor substantially comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice.

Applicants assessed as neither partially nor substantially comparable who wish to attain FRANZCOG must apply to enter the College training program at Year 1, having met the necessary entry requirements.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.4.2 For applicants applying for assessment in the subspecialist and common scope of practice, the SIMG Assessment Committee will make one of the following determinations:

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2019]

D1.4.2.1 The applicant’s training and experience is such that they are eligible for assessment by one of the recognised subspecialty assessment panels for comparability to an Australian-trained subspecialist in the subspecialist and common scope of practice.

Applicants assessed as eligible for Subspecialty assessment will be referred for assessment as per the requirements of Regulation D3.

D1.4.2.2 The applicant’s training and experience, while not such that they are considered eligible for assessment in one of the recognised subspecialties is such that they may be considered to be Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice.

Applicants assessed as Substantially Comparable are required to meet the training, assessment and administrative requirements of Regulation D1.5 in order to be awarded FRANZCOG.

D1.4.2.3 The applicant’s training and experience, while not such that they are considered eligible for assessment by one of the recognised subspecialty assessment or such that they may be considered to be Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice is such that they may be considered to be Partially Comparable in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice, at least at the level of a Year 5 (i.e. end of Basic Training period) RANZCOG trainee.

Applicants assessed as Partially Comparable are required to meet the training, assessment and administrative requirements of Regulation D1.6 in order to be awarded FRANZCOG.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, April 2020]

D1.4.2.4 The applicant’s training and experience is such that they are not considered eligible for assessment by one of the recognised subspecialty assessment panels or partially or substantially comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5 Applicants Assessed as Substantially Comparable

D1.5.1 SIMG applicants assessed as Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice will be eligible to apply for Fellowship following satisfactory completion of:

D1.5.1.1 A minimum period of three months up to twelve months (FTE) of supervised specialist clinical practice in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice in a position in Australia prospectively approved by the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.5.1.2 a Multi-source Feedback Assessment, to the satisfaction of the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.5.1.3 the requisite number of three-monthly reports;

D1.5.1.4 the equivalent number of months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities in the relevant College CPD program as an Educational Affiliate of the RANZCOG;

D1.5.1.5 Cultural Safety Training; and

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, July 2025]

D1.5.1.6 such other assessment(s) as the College may require; these will include as a minimum:

Complex caesarean section (APSS at Level D supervision)
Repair of complicated perineal, vaginal and cervical lacerations, including third-degree or fourth-degree tears (APSS at Level D supervision)
Laparoscopic surgery RANZCOG/AGES Level 2 (salpingectomy) (APSS at Level D supervision)

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, March 2025]

The duration of the period of supervised specialist clinical practice shall be stipulated by the SIMG Assessment Committee.

For the purposes of this regulation, 12 months’ supervised specialist clinical practice is defined as a minimum of 46 weeks completed full-time specialist clinical practice, with the definition of shorter periods of work being determined on a pro rata basis. Appointments of less than three (3) months (FTE) will not be considered in assessing duration of supervised specialist clinical practice.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, the period of full-time supervised specialist work may comprise up to 0.5 FTE in an Academic post at professorial level, with the remaining FTE component in clinical practice.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5.2 Applicants will have two (2) years from the time of notification of assessment of Substantial Comparability in which to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the required supervised specialist clinical practice and to apply for Fellowship.

Applicants assessed on or after 1 July 2016 will have two (2) years from the time of the commencement of the first prospectively approved supervised position, if required, in which to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the required supervised specialist clinical practice and to apply for Fellowship.

The first supervised position if required must be commenced within three (3) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College and prior to this commencement, recency of practice must be maintained as per the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

Applicants undertaking fractional (part-time) work must also remain within the maximum limit allowed for completion of the requirements of Regulation D1.5.1. A Substantially Comparable SIMG unable to satisfactorily complete College requirements as stated in D1.5.1 will be reassessed as Partially Comparable or Not Comparable.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2016]

D1.5.3 An annual fee will be payable to the RANZCOG during the period of supervised specialist clinical practice.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.5.4 Applications for prospective approval of a position must be submitted prior to commencing the period of supervised clinical practice. Applications submitted after a SIMG assessed as Substantially Comparable has commenced the position will only be approved from the date the application is received at RANZCOG.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

An SIMG must occupy a prospectively approved position and remain under supervision until all assessment requirements are completed.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, prospective approval must be obtained for both the clinical and academic components of the position.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5.5 Each applicant must have a supervisor who must be a Fellow of RANZCOG and who is in a position to observe their specialist clinical practice on a regular basis, conduct performance reviews, provide constructive feedback and seek the views of health care colleagues when compiling supervisor reports.

All supervisors must be approved by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee Chair, prior to commencement of supervised employment. Supervisors should ensure they comply with the requirements prescribed in the MBA Standards: Specialist medical college assessment of specialist international medical graduates.

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, a supervisor must be nominated for both the clinical and academic components of the position.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.5.6 For periods of supervised clinical practice, formal reports, in the format specified by the College, must be submitted three-monthly to the SIMG Assessment Committee. Failure to submit any Three-monthly Report within four (4) weeks of completion of that period of work will invalidate that three-month period of supervision.

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, Three-monthly reports must be submitted for both the clinical and academic components of the position.

Management of other than satisfactory Three-monthly Reports will be the responsibility of the SIMG Assessment Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.5.7 The required period of supervised specialist clinical practice in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in an approved position in Australia shall be deemed to have been successfully completed upon receipt of the requisite number of satisfactory Three-monthly Report(s).

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.5.8 Following satisfactory completion of the requirements stipulated in Regulation D1.5.1 the applicant will be confirmed as Substantially Comparable to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice and will be eligible to apply for Fellowship under subclause 3.2.1(b) and 3.3.1 of the RANZCOG Constitution. Fellowship will be awarded once all administrative requirements have been met.

Applicants must complete these administrative requirements within six (6) months of the date of the meeting of the Board at which their elevation to Fellowship is passed. If this requirement is not met by that time, the offer of Fellowship will lapse and a new application for Fellowship made.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5.9 If the requirements for the awarding of Fellowship have not been completed within the timeframes specified in D1.5.2, a new application for SIMG assessment must be submitted.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5.10 Where any assessment(s) indicate an applicant’s inability to work at specialist level in Australia without further training, the applicant may be reclassified, by the SIMG Assessment Committee upon reference to the assessment outcomes under D1.5.10.1. The relevant statutory authority will be notified of any change in status of the applicant.

D1.5.10.1 RANZCOG may use different assessment tools to determine if an SIMG is performing at the level expected of a Substantially Comparable SIMG. These are not limited to but may include a multi-source feedback assessment and a site visit.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.5.11 Removal from the SIMG Pathway to Fellowship

D1.5.11.1 Unless the SIMG Assessment Committee accepts that exceptional circumstances exist, an applicant granted Substantial Comparability to an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology under Regulation D1.5 will be referred to the Progression Review Committee (PRC) for consideration for removal from their pathway to Fellowship if the requirements for elevation to Fellowship are not completed and an application for elevation not made within the timeframes specified in D1.5.2.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.5.11.2 At least thirty (30) days prior to a meeting of the SIMG Assessment Committee at which an applicant is to be considered for removal from their pathway to Fellowship, the applicant will be informed of this in writing by the Chair of the Committee and advised:

of the grounds on which they may be removed from their pathway to Fellowship;
that unless the SIMG Assessment Committee accepts that exceptional circumstances apply, they will be referred to the PRC for consideration for removal from the pathway to Fellowship in accordance with Regulation A4;
that any information they wish to have considered by the SIMG Assessment Committee should be provided in writing to the committee coordinator at RANZCOG not less than twenty-one (21) days prior to the meeting of the SIMG Assessment Committee at which their removal from their pathway to Fellowship is to be considered. Any documentation submitted after that time will only be considered if the Chair of the SIMG Assessment Committee considers that the material is of significance to the matter being considered.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D1.5.12 Applicants may interrupt their training to takeextended leavefrom the training program for a maximum of 52 weeks cumulative. TraineeExtended leaveis managed by the Training Program Leave Policy.

[Revised and ratified by the Education Standards Committee, November 2025]

D1.6 Applicants Assessed as Partially Comparable

D1.6.1 Applicants assessed as Partially Comparable in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice are required to satisfactorily complete the following as an SIMG trainee:

D1.6.1.1 A minimum period of six months (FTE) and a maximum of twenty-four months (FTE) of prospectively approved, supervised training whereby the SIMG trainee is certified as possessing the competencies expected of an Australian-trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice, as outlined on the College documentation that specifies this information (the Competency Assessment Form).

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, the period of supervised specialist work may comprise up to 0.5 FTE in an Academic post at professorial level, with the remaining FTE component in clinical practice.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.6.1.2 The communication skills workshop.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, July 2025]

D1.6.1.3 The FRANZCOG Written Examination (maximum of four (4) attempts). For SIMGs whose applications for SIMG Assessment were assessed by the College on or after 1 July 2016, the maximum number of attempts shall be three (3). This must be completed before attempting the FRANZCOG Oral Examination (see Regulation B6.3.1) and/or

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D1.6.1.4 The FRANZCOG Oral Examination (maximum of four (4) attempts). For SIMGs whose applications for SIMG Assessment were assessed by the College on or after 1 July 2016, the maximum number of attempts shall be three (3). The first attempt at this examination cannot be made until after the FRANZCOG Written Examination has been passed.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, August 2016]

D1.6.1.5 Cultural Safety Training.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, July 2025]

D1.6.1.6 Such other assessment(s) as the College may require; these will include as a minimum:

Complex caesarean section (APSS at Level D supervision)
Hysterectomy by any means (APSS at Level C supervision)
Colposcopy (APSS at Level C supervision)
Ultrasound Third Trimester (APSS at Level C supervision)
Repair of complicated perineal, vaginal and cervical lacerations, including third-degree or fourth-degree tears (APSS at Level D supervision)
Laparoscopic surgery RANZCOG/AGES Level 2 (salpingectomy) (APSS at Level D supervision)
Plus the following logbook numbers:

Operative Vaginal Delivery – vaginal breech birth	12
Vaginal twin birth, including podalic version and breech extraction
Instrumental vaginal birth – midcavity or rotational for a persistent transverse or posterior position
Caesarean Section: Low Complexity – including LSCS, repeat LSCS	25
Caesarean Section: Complex – complicated caesarean section, i.e. fully dilated, placenta praevia, classical CS	10
Laparoscopic surgery, RANZCOG/AGES Skill level 2: hysteroscopic retrieval of an intrauterine device, laparoscopic tubal occlusion, simple salpingectomy including management of ectopic pregnancy, simple adhesiolysis and ablation or excision of ASRM stage 1 endometriosis located at non-critical sites	10

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, March 2025]

D1.6.2 The requirements listed in Regulation D1.6.1 may be completed concurrently; however, all requirements must be completed within four (4) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College.

For applicants assessed on or after 1 July 2016 the requirements listed in Regulation D1.6.1 may be completed concurrently; however, all requirements must be completed within four (4) years of the date of the commencement of the first prospectively approved training position. The first training position must be commenced within three (3) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College and prior to this commencement, recency of practice must be maintained as per the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

Trainees undertaking fractional (part-time) training must also remain within the maximum limit allowed for completion of the requirements of Regulation D1.6.1.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2016]

D1.6.3 For the purposes of Regulation D1.6.1.1, 12 months training is defined as a minimum of 46 weeks completed full-time training. The College defines fractional (part-time) training as training undertaken between 0.5 and full-time training (1.0) at the relevant site for the relevant period of training. Training will be recognised on the basis of the period of training (in calendar weeks) multiplied by the relevant time fraction.

The minimum number of weeks able to be recognised for the purposes of Regulation D1.6.1.1 in any period covered by a Six-monthly Summative Assessment is ten (10) weeks (FTE). If the number of weeks of training (FTE) in a six-month period is less than 10, the training will not be recognised.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.6.4 Trainees are permitted up to two (2) weeks of leave per year for the purposes of studying for the FRANZCOG examinations or for recognised professional development. This study/professional development leave may be recognised as part of the training required for the purposes of Regulation D1.6.1.1. This study/professional development leave must be prospectively approved and must meet the following criteria:

a) In the case of leave taken for the purposes of professional development (including attendance at a FRANZCOG examination revision course run by the College), a copy of the certificate of attendance or receipt for the relevant course/workshop must be submitted with the trainee’s next Six-monthly Summative Assessment that is completed after the leave is taken; and

b) In the case of leave taken for the purposes of studying for the FRANZCOG examinations, the leave must be taken within three (3) months prior to the date of the relevant examination (except where the leave is for the purposes of attendance at a FRANZCOG examination revision course run by the College), and a copy of the receipt of the examination fee for the relevant examination must be submitted with the trainee’s Six-monthly Summative Assessment Report(s) covering the period of leave taken.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2017]

D1.6.5 Applicants who commence the requirements in Regulation D1.6.1 as an SIMG trainee for the purpose of becoming eligible for the award of FRANZCOG may not apply for reassessment within the timeframe specified for the completion of those requirements.

D1.6.6 To be eligible to undertake any of the assessment requirements listed in Regulation D1.6.1, an SIMG trainee must occupy a prospectively approved position under supervision and must continue to do so until all assessment requirements, including the FRANZCOG Written and Oral Examinations, are complete.

D1.6.7 Applications for prospective approval of training must be submitted to RANZCOG prior to commencing training. Applications submitted after a SIMG trainee has commenced the position will only be approved from the date the application is received at RANZCOG

A training position is approved for a maximum of 12 months and a new application for approval must be submitted each and every year until such time as the requirements stipulated in Regulation D1.6.1 have been satisfactorily completed.

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, prospective approval must be obtained for both the clinical and academic components of the position.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D1.6.8 The training undertaken under Regulation D1.6.1 will be overseen by the SIMG Assessment Committee in consultation with the Chair of the relevant State and Territory/New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee. The SIMG supervisor to be responsible for supervising the training will be nominated by the Chair of the SIMG Assessment Committee in consultation with the Chair of the relevant State and Territory /New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee.

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, a supervisor must be nominated for the clinical and academic components of the position.

The supervision must include regular assessment of performance and progress by means of the College’s SIMG Three-monthly Formative Appraisal and SIMG Six-monthly Summative Assessment utilising the input from a range of consultants and other health professionals with whom the SIMG trainee has worked, until such time (up to the time limit specified in Regulation D1.6.2) as the SIMG trainee is certified as possessing the competencies expected of an Australian-trained specialist as defined by the Competency Assessment Form.

This documentation must be forwarded to RANZCOG within four (4) weeks of the end of the relevant training period to which a Three-monthly Formative Appraisal relates and within six (6) weeks of the end of the relevant training period to which a Six-monthly Summative Assessment relates.

For applicants in the academic and common scope of practice, Three and Six-monthly assessment reports must be submitted for the clinical and academic components of the position.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D1.6.9 Assessment of Performance

D1.6.9.1 In the event that there are concerns about a SIMG trainee’s performance and progress it is essential that this is indicated to the SIMG trainee and recorded at the time of the Three- monthly Formative Appraisal.

D1.6.9.2 Once completed, Six-monthly Summative Assessments will be assessed by SIMG supervisors as either ‘Satisfactory’ or ‘Referred for Review’. Six-monthly Summative Assessments for periods of training commenced on or after 1 December 2013 may not be assessed as ‘Borderline’.

D1.6.9.3 Any Six-monthly Summative Assessment which is ‘Referred for Review’ must be forwarded to the Chair of the SIMG Assessment Committee for further consideration and action by that committee and must be accompanied by a written suggested Learning Development Plan for the SIMG trainee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.6.9.4 All Six-monthly Summative Assessments ‘Referred for Review’ will be considered by the SIMG Assessment Committee at the next meeting following the conclusion of the relevant six-month training period. The Committee, after discussion, will decide if a SIMG trainee’s assessment is to be deemed ‘Satisfactory’ or ‘Not Satisfactory’. In making their decision, the Committee may discuss the SIMG trainee’s report with the relevant Training Supervisor and the relevant State and Territory/New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee Chair. Previous reports and progress should also be reviewed and specific areas of concern identified and noted.

The SIMG trainee should ensure the assessment is initiated and lodged with the College.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, April 2020]

D1.6.9.5 If the Six-monthly Summative Assessment is assessed by the SIMG Assessment Committee as ‘Satisfactory’, the Chair will write to the SIMG trainee informing them of the Committee’s decision and a copy of the completed report will be returned to them. The relevant State and Territory/ New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee Chair will also be notified of the outcome.

If the Committee’s view is that there are nevertheless areas of concern in relation to the SIMG trainee’s performance and progress, this must be communicated to the SIMG trainee in the same letter. Copies of the letter should be sent to the relevant Training Supervisor and the Chair of the relevant State and Territory/New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee. The Chair must also indicate the Committee’s decision on the report, sign and date it. A copy of the report will be sent to the SIMG trainee.

The Learning Development Plan, with any revisions considered necessary by the SIMG Assessment Committee, submitted with the Six-monthly Summative Assessment must be implemented as soon as possible following consideration of the report by the SIMG Assessment Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, April 2020]

D1.6.9.6 If the Six-monthly Summative Assessment is assessed by the SIMG Assessment Committee as ‘Not Satisfactory’, the Chair will write to the SIMG trainee notifying them of the decision and of the fact that the relevant six-month period will not be credited.

The letter should advise the SIMG trainee of the reasons for the Committee’s decision and make recommendations for improvements in performance and progress, including appropriate supervision and mentoring. The letter should also remind the SIMG trainee that two (2) ‘Not Satisfactory’ Six-monthly Summative Assessments in the course of the required period of training will result in a recommendation for removal from the pathway to Fellowship. Copies of the letter should be sent to the relevant Training Supervisor and the Chair of the relevant State and Territory/New Zealand Training Accreditation Committee.

A (written) Learning Development Plan for the SIMG trainee, developed in consultation with them by the relevant Training Supervisor, must be implemented as soon as possible. A copy of this plan will be retained in the SIMG trainee’s file.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, April 2020]

D1.6.9.7 Any Six-monthly Summative Assessment that is assessed as ‘Borderline’ for a period of training commenced prior to 1 December 2013 will revert to ‘Satisfactory’ should the next period of training assessed by a Six-monthly Summative Assessment be assessed as ‘Satisfactory’.

Any Six-monthly Summative Assessment that is assessed, as ‘Borderline’ for a period of training commenced prior to 1 December 2013 will revert to ‘Not Satisfactory’ should the next period of training assessed by a Six-monthly Summative Assessment be assessed as ‘Not Satisfactory’.

D1.6.10 Removal from the SIMG Pathway to Fellowship

Unless the SIMG Assessment Committee accepts that exceptional circumstances exist, a SIMG trainee required to undertake further training with the College under Regulation D1.6.1 will be referred to the Progression Review Committee for consideration for removal from their pathway to Fellowship if:

the requirements listed in Regulation D1.6.1 are not completed within the timeframes specified in D1.6.2; or

either the FRANZCOG Written or Oral Examination is not passed within the maximum attempts as specified in D1.6.1; or

the Committee assess two (2) Six-monthly Summative Assessments as ‘Not Satisfactory’ during the course of that training; or

the SIMG trainee fails on a second occasion in the course of their training to submit a Three- monthly Formative Appraisal and/or a Six-monthly Summative Assessment /Clinical Training Summary to the SIMG Coordinator at RANZCOG by the specified deadlines, according to the process outlined in Regulation D1.5.11.2.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D1.6.11 Following satisfactory completion of the requirements of Regulation D1.6.1 and its subsections, the SIMG trainee will be eligible to apply for elevation to Fellowship in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice or the academic and common scope of practice. Elevation to Fellowship is not complete until all administrative requirements for Fellowship have been met. This includes payment of elevation fees.

SIMG trainees must complete these administrative requirements within six (6) months of the date of the meeting of the Board at which their elevation to Fellowship is passed. If this requirement is not met by that time, the offer of Fellowship will lapse and a new application made.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D1.6.12 Applicants Assessed as Partially Comparable must comply with the RANZCOG Code of Conduct and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the standard of professional and ethical behaviour expected by the College.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2020]

D1.6.13 Applicants may interrupt their training to takeextended leavefrom the training program for a maximum of 104 weeks cumulative. TraineeExtended leaveis managed by the Training Program Leave Policy.

[Revised and ratified by the Education Standards Committee, November 2025]

D1.7 Reassessment of Comparability

D1.7.1 Applicants who have previously applied for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D1.1.2, and received an assessment outcome of Not Comparable may apply for reassessment subsequently, if the following conditions have been met:

a period of at least three (3) years has elapsed since the original outcome of assessment was advised to the applicant; and

the applicant can demonstrate there has been a material change in their training and experience since they were previously assessed by the College and that they have undertaken a further significant period of training and/or experience that is verifiable and acceptable to the College.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2016]

D1.7.2 Applicants who have previously applied for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D1.1.2 and received an assessment outcome of Partially Comparable may apply for reassessment when the timeframe specified for the completion of those requirements has expired.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2016]

D1.7.3 Applicants who meet the provision in D1.7.2 may apply for reassessment with the following provision, notwithstanding the requirements the applicant completed as a result of their prior assessment and training:

Applicants reassessed as Partially Comparable will be required to undertake all provisions as stated in D1.6, with the exception of the FRANZCOG Written and/or Oral Examinations where these have already been passed by the applicant. The applicant’s previous unsuccessful attempts at the FRANZCOG Written and Oral Examinations will stand and be counted toward the maximum number of attempts allowed in the subsequent pathway.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2016]

D1.8 The Expedited Pathway

D1.8.1 The Application Process

D1.8.1.1 Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs) seeking recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia via the Expedited Pathway must apply directly to the College using the prescribed application form.

D1.8.1.2 Applications for assessment may also be made by:

D1.8.1.2.1 Australian graduates who have undertaken post-graduate specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology overseas.

D1.8.1.3 Applicants applying for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia via the Expedited Pathway pursuant to Regulation D1.8.1 must:

D1.8.1.3.1 hold a primary qualification in medicine and surgery from a training institution recognised by both the AMC and the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS); and

D1.8.1.3.2 have completed formal post-graduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology and have obtained:

D1.8.1.3.2.1 Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) and Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT); or

D.1.8.1.3.2.2 Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) and Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Specialist Training (CSCST), plus the MRCOG examination.

D1.8.1.3.3 have participated in a continuing professional development program since obtaining a specialist qualification.

D1.8.1.3.4 have the necessary English language proficiency for the purposes of registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency; and

D1.8.1.3.5 demonstrate recency of practice in the relevant scope of practice, generalist obstetrics and gynaecology, within the twelve (12) months prior to making application for assessment, in accordance with the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

D1.8.1.4 English Language Proficiency

D1.8.1.4.1 The requirement for English language skills must be at the level expected by the Medical Board of Australia’s registration standard for English language skills.

D1.8.1.5 Applications must include all required documentation as specified by the College. An Incomplete Application fee shall be payable for incomplete applications.

D1.8.1.6 The application for assessment will lapse if payment, referee reports and/or documentation remain outstanding after six (6) months from the date of receipt of the application for assessment.

D1.8.2 Preliminary Review

D1.8.2.1 The SIMG Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review fee must be processed before assessment can commence. Three (3) written referee reports must be received prior to Preliminary Review.

D1.8.2.2 Each application will be assessed against the requirements of the Expedited Pathway for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia.

D1.8.2.3 The Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review will be conducted by at least one SIMG Assessor, appointed by the RANZCOG SIMG Committee.

D1.8.2.4 The outcome of the Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review will be either:

D1.8.2.4.1 ‘Eligible for the Expedited Pathway 1’. If an Applicant is considered Eligible for the Expedited Pathway 1, recency of practice in the generalist scope of obstetrics and gynaecology can be established from the application and the Applicant is not required to attend an Interview with the College; or

D1.8.2.4.2 ‘Eligible for the Expedited Pathway 2’. If an Applicant is eligible for the Expedited Pathway 2’ then a shortened Expedited Pathway interview will explore in greater detail the Applicant’s recency of practice in the specialty and determine the period of supervised practice on the SIMG Expedited Pathway.

D1.8.2.4.5 ‘Not eligible for the Expedited Pathway’ pursuant to Regulation D1.8.1.3. Applicants who are not eligible for the Expedited Pathway may alternatively apply for assessment via the Generalist Obstetrics and Gynaecology Pathway as per Regulation D1.1

D1.8.2.5 Where recency of practice cannot be determined through the Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review, prior to the Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review Outcome being issued, the Applicant will be provided with feedback via the Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review (EPPR) Form. The Applicant has fourteen calendar days from the date of receipt of the EPPR to respond using the applicable RANZCOG forms. Following the fourteen-day timeframe RANZCOG will issue the Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review Outcome.

D1.8.2.6 If further information is provided by the Applicant, the SIMG Assessor(s) will consider the submission before issuing a final Expedited Pathway Preliminary Review Outcome.

D1.8.3 Eligibility for Fellowship of RANZCOG on the Expedited Pathway

D1.8.3.1 SIMG applicants assessed as Eligible for the Expedited Pathway 1 for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia, in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice will be eligible to apply for Fellowship following satisfactory completion of:

D1.8.3.1.1 Six months (FTE) of supervised specialist clinical practice in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice in a position in Australia prospectively approved by the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.8.3.1.2 a Multi-source Feedback Assessment, to the satisfaction of the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.8.3.1.3 the requisite number of three-monthly reports;

D1.8.3.1.4 the equivalent number of months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities in the relevant College CPD program as an Educational Affiliate of the RANZCOG;

D1.8.3.1.5 Cultural Safety Training; and

D1.8.3.1.6 such other assessment(s) as the College may require; these will include as a minimum:

Complex caesarean section (APSS at Level D supervision)
Repair of complicated perineal, vaginal and cervical lacerations, including third-degree or fourth-degree tears (APSS at Level D supervision)
Laparoscopic surgery RANZCOG/AGES Level 2 (salpingectomy) (APSS at Level D supervision).

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, March 2025]

D1.8.3.2 Applicants assessed as ‘eligible for the Expedited pathway 2’ will be assessed in accordance with Regulation D1.8.3.4.

D1.8.3.3 The Expedited Pathway 2 Interview

D1.8.3.3.1 Applicants will be advised that if they do not attend an interview within 12 months of receipt of invitation to interview, the application will lapse.

D1.8.3.3.2 The interview will be conducted by a panel of SIMG Assessors, appointed by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee, pursuant to that Committee’s Terms of Reference.
The Expedited Pathway Interview will determine recency of practice and the duration of the period of supervised specialist clinical practice shall be stipulated by the SIMG Assessment Committee.

D1.8.3.4 SIMG applicants assessed as Eligible for the Expedited Pathway 2 for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia, in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice will be eligible to apply for Fellowship following satisfactory completion of

D1.8.3.4.1 Period of satisfactory supervised specialist clinical practice determined by the SIMG Assessment Committee in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice in a position in Australia prospectively approved by the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.8.3.4.2 a Multi-source Feedback Assessment, to the satisfaction of the SIMG Assessment Committee;

D1.8.3.4.3 the requisite number of three-monthly reports;

D1.8.3.4.4 the equivalent number of months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities in the relevant College CPD program as an Educational Affiliate of the RANZCOG;

D1.8.3.4.5 Cultural Safety Training; and

D1.8.3.4.6 such other assessment(s) as the College may require; these will include as a minimum:

Complex caesarean section (APSS at Level D supervision)
Repair of complicated perineal, vaginal and cervical lacerations, including third-degree or fourth-degree tears (APSS at Level D supervision)
Laparoscopic surgery RANZCOG/AGES Level 2 (salpingectomy) (APSS at Level D supervision).

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, March 2025]

D1.8.3.5 Applicants will have two (2) years from the start date of their first prospectively approved supervised position to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the required supervised specialist clinical practice and to apply for Fellowship.

The first supervised position must be commenced within three (3) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College and prior to this commencement, recency of practice must be maintained as per the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

Applicants undertaking fractional (part-time) work must also remain within the maximum limit allowed for completion of the requirements of Regulation D1.8.

For the purposes of this regulation, six months’ supervised specialist clinical practice is defined as a minimum of 23 weeks completed full-time specialist clinical practice, with the definition of shorter periods of work being determined on a pro-rata basis. Appointments of less than three (3) months (FTE) will not be considered in assessing the duration of supervised specialist clinical practice

D1.8.3.6 An annual Expedited Pathway fee will be payable to the RANZCOG during the period of supervised specialist clinical practice.

D1.8.3.7 Applications for prospective approval of a position must be submitted prior to commencing the period of supervised clinical practice. Applications submitted after a SIMG assessed via the Expedited Pathway has commenced the position will only be approved from the date the application is received at RANZCOG.

An SIMG must occupy a prospectively approved position and remain under supervision until all assessment requirements are completed.

D1.8.3.8 Each applicant must have a supervisor who must be a Fellow of RANZCOG and who is in a position to observe their specialist clinical practice on a regular basis, conduct performance reviews, provide constructive feedback and seek the views of health care colleagues when compiling supervisor reports.

All supervisors must be approved by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee Chair, prior to commencement of supervised employment. Supervisors should ensure they comply with the requirements prescribed in the MBA Standards: Specialist medical college assessment of specialist international medical graduates.

D1.8.3.9 For periods of supervised clinical practice, formal reports, in the format specified by the College, must be submitted three-monthly to the SIMG Assessment Committee. Failure to submit any Three-monthly Report within four (4) weeks of completion of that period of work will invalidate that three-month period of supervision.

Management of other than satisfactory Three-monthly Reports will be the responsibility of the SIMG Assessment Committee.

D1.8.3.10 The required period of supervised specialist clinical practice in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in an approved position in Australia shall be deemed to have been successfully completed upon receipt of the requisite number of satisfactory Three-monthly Report(s).

D1.8.3.11 Following satisfactory completion of the requirements stipulated in Regulation D1.8.3.1 (Expedited Pathway 1), the applicant will be confirmed as comparable to an Australian trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice and will be eligible to apply for Fellowship under clause 3.3 of the RANZCOG Constitution. Fellowship will be awarded once all administrative requirements have been met.

D1.8.3.12 Following satisfactory completion of the requirements stipulated in Regulation D1.8.3.4 (Expedited Pathway 2), the applicant will be confirmed as comparable to an Australian trained specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice in Australia will be eligible to apply for Fellowship under clause 3.3. of the RANZCOG Constitution. Fellowship will be awarded once all administrative requirements have been met.

D1.8.3.13 If the timeframes for completion of requirements under clause D1.8.3.5 have not been met, a new application for SIMG assessment must be submitted.

D1.8.3.14 Where any assessment(s) indicate an applicant’s inability to work at the specialist level in Australia without further training, the applicant will be reclassified as Partially Comparable by the SIMG Assessment Committee upon reference to the assessment outcomes under D1.8.3.15. Following reclassification, an applicant must meet the requirements under section D1.6 (Applicants Assessed as Partially Comparable). The relevant statutory authority will be notified of any change in the status of the applicant.

D1.8.3.15 RANZCOG may use different assessment tools to determine if an applicant is performing at the level expected of a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice in Australia. These are not limited to but may include a multi-source feedback assessment and a site visit.

D1.8.3.16 Removal from the Expedited Pathway to Fellowship

D1.8.3.16.1 An applicant granted recognition of a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia under Regulation D1.8.3 will be removed from the Expedited Pathway Program if an applicant was reclassified under section D1.8.3.14.

D1.8.3.16.2 Failure to meet the timeframes for elevation to Fellowship under section in D1.8.3.5. will be referred to the Progression Review Committee (PRC) for consideration for removal from their Expedited Pathway to Fellowship.

At least thirty (30) days prior to a meeting of the SIMG Assessment Committee at which an applicant is to be considered for removal from their Expedited Pathway to Fellowship, the applicant will be informed of this in writing by the Chair of the Committee and advised:

of the grounds on which they may be removed from their Expedited Pathway to Fellowship;
that unless the SIMG Assessment Committee accepts that prima facie exceptional circumstances apply, they will be removed from the Expedited Pathway to Fellowship Program, and they will either be, where applicable, reclassified or referred to the PRC.
that any information they wish to have considered by the SIMG Assessment Committee should be provided in writing to the committee coordinator at RANZCOG not less than twenty-one (21) days prior to the meeting of the SIMG Assessment Committee at which their removal from their Expedited Pathway to Fellowship is to be considered. Any documentation submitted after that time will only be considered if the Chair of the SIMG Assessment Committee considers that the material is of significance to the matter being considered.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Education Standards Committee, December 2024]

D1.9 Short Term Training

D1.9.1 For international medical graduates (IMGs) who are applying for the MBA Short Term Training Pathway (STT) applications must adhere to the RANZCOG, Short-Term Training Pathway Policy and Procedure.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D2 Assessment of Specialist International Medical Graduates Applying for Recognition as a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in New Zealand

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2023]

D2.1 Vocational Registration

D2.1.1 For the purposes of the granting of vocational registration to practice in Aotearoa New Zealand, the assessment of Specialist International Medical Graduate (SIMG) obstetricians and gynaecologists in the Provisional Vocational (specialist) registration pathways will be conducted by RANZCOG at the request of the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and in accordance with the requirements of MCNZ under its policies for registration within a vocational scope of practice.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D2.1.2 RANZCOG will act as an advisor to the MCNZ. As such, RANZCOG will, at the request of MCNZ, conduct a paper-based assessment or interview assessment as required. The outcome of the assessment will be to advise the MCNZ on the applicant’s suitability for vocational registration, the period of supervision required and any assessment necessary.

D2.1.3 Advice to MCNZ will be based on whether the combination of the doctor’s qualifications, training and experience is assessed to be:

‘Equivalent’ to that of an Aotearoa New Zealand vocationally trained medical practitioner registered in the obstetrics and gynaecology vocational scope of practice; or

‘As satisfactory as’ that of an Aotearoa New Zealand vocationally trained medical practitioner registered in the obstetrics and gynaecology vocational scope of practice; or

‘Neither equivalent to nor as satisfactory as’ an Aotearoa New Zealand vocationally trained medical practitioner registered in the obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice.

This assessment will be undertaken by a panel of assessors appointed for that purpose by Te Kāhui Oranga ō Nuku, and reporting to Te Kāhui Oranga ō Nuku and the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D2.1.4 The MCNZ will then determine whether the applicant is suitable for provisional registration within a vocational scope. MCNZ will also determine and oversee the pathway to full vocational registration. This will include a period of supervision and may also include assessments deemed necessary.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2023]

D2.2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

D2.2.1 SIMGs who are provisionally registered in Aotearoa New Zealand under the obstetrics and gynaecology vocational scope of practice are eligible to be admitted to the College as an Educational Affiliate (see Regulation A1.5) and enrol in the RANZCOG CPD program. MCNZ requires that all vocationally registered SIMGs are enrolled in a recertification (CPD) program.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2023]

D2.3 Pathways to Fellowship

For the purposes of the granting of Fellowship of RANZCOG, the pathways will be as follows:

D2.3.1 Applicants who are assessed in the Provisional Vocational (specialist) registration pathways processes as having combined qualifications, training and experience ‘equivalent to’ or ‘as satisfactory as’ those of an obstetrician and gynaecologist vocationally trained in Aotearoa New Zealand will be eligible to apply for Fellowship of RANZCOG under subclause 3.2.1(b) and 3.3.1 of the RANZCOG Constitution upon being granted registration within the vocational scope of practice by the MCNZ and after satisfactory completion of any other requirement(s) as the College may from time to time require.

Such applicants must apply for elevation to Fellowship within two (2) years of the date of notification of assessment by the MCNZ. Extension of this period may be considered upon application, where exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated, as per the Exceptional Circumstances and Special Consideration Policy and Procedure.

Fellowship will be awarded once all RANZCOG administrative requirements have been met. Applicants must complete these administrative requirements within six (6) months of the date of the meeting of the Board at which their elevation to Fellowship is passed. If this requirement is not met by that time, the offer of Fellowship will lapse and a new application made.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D2.3.2An applicant who has been assessed by RANZCOG as having vocational qualifications, training and experience ‘neither equivalent to nor as satisfactory as’ those of an obstetrician and gynaecologist vocationally trained in Aotearoa New Zealand, but who has obtained vocational registration in the obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice by virtue of a decision of the MCNZ, may request a Fellowship assessment by the College for the purpose of attaining FRANZCOG.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D2.3.3Where it is identified in a final assessment outcome that an applicant’s qualifications, training and experience are ‘neither equivalent to, nor as satisfactory as’ those of an obstetrician and gynaecologist vocationally trained in Aotearoa New Zealand, and/or where an applicant does not meet the requirements for registration in the vocational scope of obstetrics and gynaecology, the applicant will be advised that if they wish to proceed to FRANZCOG, they must apply to enter the College training program at Year 1, having met the necessary entry requirements.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D3 Assessment for Recognition as a Subspecialist in Australia and New Zealand

D3.1 The Application Process

D3.1.1 Specialist international Medical Graduates who hold a recognised international subspecialist qualification, in one of RANZCOG’s recognised scopes of practice as per D1.1.1 from a recognised College or national certifying body may apply to the College for assessment as an International Subspecialist using the prescribed application form.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.2 Preliminary Review

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.2.1 Applications will initially be assessed for eligibility for Subspecialties assessment by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee. In order to be eligible a SIMG must either:

D3.2.1.1 hold or have been assessed as eligible to hold Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists; or

D3.2.1.2 hold a recognised international subspecialist qualification from a recognised College or national certifying body and meet the RANZCOG common scope of practice as specified in D1.2.3.1 or

D3.2.1.3 Meet the criteria for a dual assessment of their Generalist O&G and Subspecialist qualifications as specified in D3.1 and D1.2.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.2.2 Eligible applications will be referred to the relevant Subspecialty assessors from the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.2.3 Applicants applying for recognition as a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D1.1.1 must:

D3.2.3.1 Meet the criteria as specified in D1.1

D3.2.3.2 In order to be considered for interview, it is generally expected that all applicants will have completed a specialist training program in obstetrics and gynaecology which meets the following criteria:

D3.2.3.2.1 The program was a structured post-graduate course of at least three years duration with published standards that are comparable to that of the FRANZCOG Subspecialist Training Program.

D3.2.3.2.2 The subspecialist program incorporated a documented and systematic in- training assessment system incorporating regular, on-going formative and summative performance-based assessments, examinations and other assessments comparable to those undertaken by RANZCOG subspecialist trainees.

D3.2.3.2.3 Entry into the program was via a competitive process.

D3.2.3.2.4 The program was accredited against published standards by an external body and was subjected to assessment for reaccreditation at regular intervals.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.2.4 Applications for Subspecialties assessment must include the following documentation:

D3.2.4.1 A covering letter addressed to the chair of the relevant subspecialty committee.

D3.2.4.2 A detailed curriculum vitae, including a list of research publications.

D3.2.4.3 Certified copies of all qualifications.

D3.2.4.4 A copy of the official syllabus/curriculum for the applicant’s subspecialist training program, including a list of the specific assessment requirements.

D3.2.4.5 Logbook records which clearly indicate all surgical experience, including whether the applicant was the primary operator or the assistant and whether the procedure was major or minor.

D3.2.4.6 A diary or typical weekly timetable for each of the applicant’s years of training indicating details of procedural work.

D3.2.4.7 Written statements from the heads of the units where the applicant has worked (or other appropriate supervisor) describing what they actually did and giving an assessment of competence.

D3.2.4.8 A copy of the official position description for the applicant’s current position, indicating specific responsibilities and duties, and also the number and type of cases dealt with by the unit (if a position description is not available, a detailed written statement will suffice).

D3.2.4.9 Printed copy of the official accreditation criteria for the unit(s) where the applicant has trained/worked.

D3.2.4.10 Referee reports three (3) of which must be from subspecialists, including one (1) from the most recent position.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.2.4.11 Certificate of registration status from applicant’s certifying body.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D3.2.5 Each application will be assessed against the requirements of the relevant subspecialty.

D3.2.6 Prior to the Preliminary Review Outcome being issued, the Applicant will be provided with feedback via the Summary of Preliminary Review (SPR) form.

The Applicant has twenty-one days to respond to the SPR using the applicable RANZCOG forms. Failure to respond to the SPR within the twenty-one-day timeframe will result in RANZCOG considering the SPR as accepted by the Applicant and RANZCOG can issue the Preliminary Review Outcome.

If feedback is provided by the Applicant, the SIMG Assessor(s) will consider the submission and can issue a final Preliminary Review Outcome.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.2.7 The outcome of the Preliminary Review shall be either:

D3.2.7.1 ‘not comparable to a RANZCOG-trained Subspecialist’; or

D3.2.7.2 ‘Eligible Interview’. If an applicant is found Eligible for Interview then an interview is required to explore in greater detail the Applicant’s qualifications, training, experience, recency of practice in the subspecialty, CPD and non-technical professional attributes including the Applicant’s understanding of the importance of culturally safe and respectful practice for the community, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to determine comparability on one of the recognised RANZCOG SIMG pathways.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.2.8 Applicants assessed as ‘not comparable’ to a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist will be advised that if they wish to proceed to certification in the subspecialty they must first enter the SIMG pathway and meet the requirements for Fellowship in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice and subsequently apply to enter the relevant subspecialty training program at Year 1.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D3.2.9 Applicants assessed as ‘eligible for interview’ pursuant to D3.2.7.2 will be assessed in accordance with Regulation D3.3. Applicants will be advised that if they do not attend an interview within 12 months of receipt of invitation to interview, the application will lapse.

D3.3 The Interview

D3.3.1 The interview will be conducted by a panel of SIMG Assessors, appointed by the RANZCOG SIMG Assessment Committee, pursuant to that Committee’s Terms of Reference.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.4 Outcome of the Interview

D3.4.1 The interview panel will make one of the following determinations:

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.4.1.1 The applicant’s training and experience is Substantially Comparable to a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist.

Applicants assessed as Substantially Comparable are required to meet the requirements of Regulation D3.5 in order to be certified in the relevant subspecialty.

D3.4.1.2 The applicant’s training and experience is Partially Comparable to that of a RANZCOG- trained subspecialist.

Applicants assessed as Partially Comparable are required to meet the requirements of Regulation D3.6 in order to be certified in the relevant subspecialty.

D3.4.1.3 The applicant’s training and experience is not comparable to a RANZCOG training subspecialist.

Applicants wishing to attain certification in the subspecialty must first enter the SIMG pathway and meet the requirements for Fellowship in the generalist obstetrics and gynaecology scope of practice and subsequently apply to enter the relevant subspecialty training program at Year 1, having met the necessary entry requirements.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.5 Substantially Comparable Applicants

D3.5.1 Applicants assessed as Substantially Comparable to a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist will be required to satisfactorily complete a minimum period of three months up to 12 months of supervised practice, in a prospectively approved position approved by the relevant Subspecialty Committee.

An SIMG must occupy a prospectively approved position and remain under supervision until all assessment requirements are completed.

Applicants will have two (2) years from the time of the commencement of the first prospectively approved supervised position, if required, in which to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the required period of supervised subspecialist practice and to apply for Certification. The first supervised position if required must be commenced within three (3) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College and prior to this commencement, recency of practice must be maintained as per the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

If the requirements for the awarding of Certification have not been completed within these timeframes, a new application for International Subspecialist assessment must be submitted.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.5.2 Each applicant must have a local supervisor who holds the relevant RANZCOG subspecialist Certification and who is in a position to directly observe their work on a regular basis, and to seek the views of relevant health care colleagues when compiling supervisor reports. All supervisors must be approved by the relevant Subspecialty Committee, prior to the International Subspecialist commencing the required period of supervised subspecialty practice.

D3.5.3 For periods of supervised clinical practice, Formative Appraisals, in the format specified by the College, must be submitted three-monthly to the relevant subspecialty committee. Failure to submit any Formative Appraisal within four (4) weeks of completion of that period of work will invalidate that period of supervision.

Management of other than satisfactory formative appraisals will be the responsibility of the relevant subspecialty committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.5.4 The required period of supervised subspecialist practice in an approved position in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand shall be deemed to have been satisfactorily completed upon receipt of the requisite number of satisfactory Formative Appraisal(s).

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, February 2024]

D3.5.4.1 An annual fee will be payable to the RANZCOG during the period of supervised specialist practice.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.5.5 Certification and Elevation to Fellowship

D3.5.5.1 Following satisfactory completion of:

the requisite number of months of supervised practice in a position commensurate with the relevant subspecialty;
completion to the satisfaction of the relevant Subspecialty Committee of a Multi-source Feedback Assessment;
completion of the requisite number of Three-monthly Formative Appraisal Report(s);
the equivalent number of months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities in the relevant College CPD program; and
completion of such other assessment(s) or report(s) as the College may from time to time require or deem appropriate,

the applicant will be deemed eligible to apply for Certification in the relevant subspecialty.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.5.5.2 For those SIMGs who are assessed only for their subspecialty qualification and are not eligible for FRANZCOG they will be recommended to the Medical Board of Australia for Specialist registration in a limited scope of practice.

D3.5.5.3 Applicants must complete these administrative requirements within six (6) months of the Subspecialist Committee at which their elevation to Certification is passed. If this requirement is not met by that time, the offer of Certification will lapse and a new application for Certification made.

D3.5.5.4 If the requirements for the awarding of Certification have not been completed within the timeframes specified in D3.5.1, a new application for SIMG assessment must be submitted.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.5.6 Where any assessment(s) indicate an SIMG’s inability to work at subspecialist level in Australia without further training required, the applicant may be reclassified by the SIMG Assessment Committee. The relevant Statutory authority will be notified of any change in status of the applicant.

D3.5.6.1 RANZCOG may use different assessment tools to determine if an SIMG is performing at the level expected of a Substantially Comparable SIMG. These are not limited to but may include a multi-source feedback assessment or a site visit.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.5.7 Removal from the Pathway to Subspecialty Certification and Fellowship

D3.5.7.1 Unless the relevant Subspecialty Committee accepts that exceptional circumstances exist an applicant granted Substantial Comparability to a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist under Regulation D3.5 will be referred to the Progression Review Committee (PRC) for consideration for removal from their pathway to subspecialty certification if the requirements for certification are not completed and an application for Certification is not made within the timeframe specified in D3.5.1 according to the processes outlined in Regulation D1.5.11.2.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, July 2016]

D3.5.8 Applicants Assessed as Substantially Comparable must comply with the RANZCOG Code of Conduct and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the standard of professional and ethical behaviour expected by the College.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2020]

D3.6 Partially Comparable Applicants

D3.6.1 Applicants assessed as Partially Comparable to a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist are required to satisfactorily complete the following:

D3.6.1.1 A minimum period of 12 months (FTE) and a maximum of 24 months (FTE) of supervised practice in a position approved by the relevant Subspecialty Committee as a subspecialty SIMG trainee, whereby the subspecialty SIMG trainee is certified as possessing the competencies expected of a RANZCOG-trained subspecialist in the relevant subspecialty.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.1.2 The written examination (maximum of four (4) attempts) of the relevant subspecialty. For SIMGs whose applications for SIMG Assessment were received by the College after 1 July 2016, the maximum number of attempts at the examination shall be three (3); and/or

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.1.3 The oral examination (maximum of four (4) attempts) or approved alternative assessment(s) of the relevant subspecialty. For SIMGs whose applications for SIMG Assessment were received by the College after 1 July 2016, the maximum number of attempts at the examination shall be three (3); and

D3.6.1.4 Such other assessment(s) or report(s) as the College may from time to time require or deem appropriate.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.1.5 the equivalent number of months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities in the relevant College CPD program as an Educational Affiliate of the RANZCOG.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.2 The requirements listed in Regulation D3.6.1 may be completed concurrently; however, all requirements must be completed within four (4) years from the date of commencement of the first prospectively approved supervised position, in which to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the required period of supervised subspecialist practice and to apply for Certification. The first supervised position must be commenced within three (3) years of the date of notification of the assessment decision by the College and prior to this commencement, recency of practice must be maintained as per the Medical Board of Australia Recency of Practice Standard.

Subspecialty SIMG trainees undertaking fractional (part-time) training must also remain within the maximum limit allowed for completion of the requirements of Regulation D3.6.1.

If the requirements for the awarding of Certification have not been completed within this time, a new application for International Subspecialist assessment must be submitted under the provisions stated in D3.7 Reassessment of Comparability.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2017]

D3.6.2.1 An annual fee will be payable to the RANZCOG during the period of supervised specialist practice

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2021]

D3.6.3 Each subspecialty SIMG trainee must have a local supervisor who holds the relevant RANZCOG subspecialist Certification and who is in a position to directly observe their work on a regular basis, and to seek the views of relevant health care colleagues when compiling supervisor reports. All supervisors must be approved by the relevant Subspecialty Committee prior to the subspecialty SIMG trainee commencing the required period of supervised practice.

D3.6.4 The supervision must include regular assessment of performance and progress by means of the College’s Subspecialty Three-monthly Formative Appraisal and Subspecialty Six-monthly Summative Assessment utilising the input from a range of consultants and other health professionals with whom the subspecialty SIMG trainee has worked.

Management of other than satisfactory assessments will be the responsibility of the relevant Subspecialty Committee.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D3.6.5 Certification and Elevation to Fellowship

D3.6.5.1 Following receipt of satisfactory assessments and successful completion of all components of the relevant examinations, the subspecialty SIMG trainee will be eligible to apply for Certification in the relevant subspecialty as specified in D3.5.5.

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.6 Removal from the International Subspecialist Pathway

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2019]

D3.6.6.1 Unless the relevant Subspecialty Committee accepts that exceptional circumstances exist, a subspecialty SIMG trainee required to undertake further training with the College under Regulation D3.6.1 will be referred to the Progression Review Committee for consideration for removal from their pathway to certification and Fellowship if:

the requirements listed in Regulation D3.6.1 are not completed within the timeframe specified in D3.6.2; or
either the relevant subspecialty written or oral examination is not passed within the maximum attempts specified in D3.6.1.2 or D3.6.1.3; or
the Committee assess two (2) Six-monthly Summative Assessments as ‘Not Satisfactory’ during the course of their training; or
the subspecialty SIMG trainee fails on a second occasion in the course of their training to submit a Three-monthly Formative Appraisal and/or a Six-monthly Summative Assessment /Clinical Training Summary to RANZCOG  by the specified deadlines according to the processes outlined in Regulation D1.5.11.2

[Revised and ratified by the RANZCOG Board, November 2022]

D3.6.7 Applicants Assessed as Partially Comparable must comply with the RANZCOG Code of Conduct and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the standard of professional and ethical behaviour expected by the College.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, October 2020]

D3.7 Reassessment of Comparability

D3.7.1 Applicants who have previously applied for recognition as a subspecialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D3.1.1 and received an assessment outcome of Not Comparable may apply for reassessment subsequently, if the following conditions have been met:

a period of at least three (3) years has elapsed since the original outcome of assessment was advised to the applicant; and
the applicant can demonstrate there has been a material change in their training and experience since they were previously assessed by the College and that they have undertaken a further significant period of training and/or experience that is verifiable and acceptable to the College.

D3.7.2 Applicants who have previously applied for recognition as a subspecialist in obstetrics and gynaecology in Australia pursuant to Regulation D3.1.1, and received an assessment outcome of Partially Comparable may apply for reassessment subsequently when the timeframe specified for the completion of the requirements as specified in D3.6.1 has expired and the conditions specified in D3.7.1 have been met.

D3.7.3 Applicants who meet the provisions in D3.7.2 may apply for reassessment with the following provision:

Notwithstanding the requirements the applicant completed as a result of their prior assessment and training, applicants reassessed as Partially Comparable will be required to undertake all provisions as stated in D3.6.1, with the exception of any required Subspecialty Written and/or Oral Examinations where these have already been passed by the applicant. The applicant’s previous unsuccessful attempts at any Subspecialty Written or Oral Examination will stand and be counted toward the maximum number of attempts allowed in the subsequent pathway.

[Ratified by the RANZCOG Board, March 2017]

D3.8 Short Term Training

D3.8.1 For International medical graduates (IMG) who are applying for the MBA Short Term Training pathway (STT) applications must adhere to the ��TV Short-Term Training Pathway Policy and Procedure.