Challenges in gastroenterology training in Australia

Abstract

Selection into gastroenterology advanced training in Australia is becoming increasingly competitive, in part due to the rapid growth in the number of medical graduates. Following completion of medical school, doctors generally undertake 4–5 years of generalist training before applying to gastroenterology advanced training. At this stage, a substantial mismatch exists between the supply and demand for gastroenterology training positions, with only 25% of applicants being successful.1 This process is highly competitive, and it is becoming increasingly common for applicants to undertake additional years of training or higher degrees before starting advanced gastroenterology training, resulting in an overall extended length of training.