IMG education program – A community of practice framework for IMGs and clinical observers

Abstract

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are faced with unique educational needs and challenges during transition to Australian healthcare setting. Although IMGs’ issues have been well identified in the literature, limited interventions were done to overcome the gaps. The aim of this study is to provide a platform of learning and to improve confidence in IMGs to work more competently and independently in Australian healthcare system. At Northern Health we applied the community of practice (CoP) framework to establish an education program for IMGs and Clinical Observers. Our findings show that ‘IMG Education Program’ is highly regarded by IMGs and clinical observers; 87% are satisfied with IMG education sessions and 93.5% regard digital communication platforms highly. This program provides the opportunity for IMG JMOs and Observers to engage with their community; share information, improve skills, build relationships and develop a repertoire of shared resources to enable a smoother transition to the Australian medical workforce.