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If you’re a doctor considering a move to Australia or exploring training pathways, you may have come across the term “MM2+” . But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for GPs? Understanding the Modified Monash Model (MMM) The Modified Monash Model (MMM) is a classification tool used to measure both the remoteness of an area and its population size . It is designed to guide the distribution of the healthcare workforce across Australia, ensuring that rural and remote communities have better access to medical care. MMM uses a scale from MM 1 (major city) to MM 7 (very remote) : MM 1 – Major cities (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) MM 2–7 – Rural and remote communities, with MM 7 being very remote These classifications are reviewed after each census, based on the Australian Statistical Geography Standard – Remoteness Areas (ASGS-RA) . You can check any location’s classification on the Health Workforce Locator . Why MM2+ Matters for GPs In the context of General Practice, MM2+ refers to areas classified as MM 2 or higher . These are rural or remote regions where access to healthcare is more limited, and where doctors are most needed. Living in an MM2+ area often means: Patients may wait longer or travel further for medical care Health services are in higher demand Government incentives and training opportunities are available for GPs MM2+ and Distribution Priority Area (DPA) The Distribution Priority Area (DPA) classification also relies on MMM boundaries. All areas classified MM 2–7 are automatically DPA . This is important because many GP training and Fellowship pathways require working in a DPA or MM2+ location. For example, the Northern Territory is automatically classified as DPA, regardless of MMM category. GP Training Pathways and MM2+ Requirements For overseas-trained doctors (OTDs) and GP registrars, MM2+ plays a key role in eligibility for various programs. Here’s how it applies to major training and registration pathways: AHPRA Expedited Pathway – Requires DPA (can be MM1) RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Substantially Comparable) – Requires DPA (can be MM1) RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Partially Comparable) – Requires MM2+ until Fellowship is gained, then only DPA RACGP Fellowship Support Program (FSP) – Requires MM2+ ACRRM Independent Pathway – Requires MM2+ , with at least 12 months in MM4+ ACRRM Specialist Pathway – Requires MM4+ Rural Generalist Training Scheme – Requires MM2+ , with 12 months in MM4+ Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS) – Requires MM2+ Key Takeaway for GPs If you’re planning to work as a GP in Australia, especially as an overseas-trained doctor, understanding MM2+ classifications is essential. These areas not only offer excellent professional opportunities but also provide access to government support and incentives designed to attract doctors to rural and remote communities. To explore current GP roles in MM2+ locations or to learn more about your eligibility, reach out to Doctor Connect . Our team specialises in helping GPs find rewarding opportunities across Australia.

MICGPs holding CSCST, and MRCGPs holding CCT may be able to start work in Australia within 3 months, or less, of registration processing time. General Practitioners Prioritised GPs are the first of the priority specialists identified by the Medical Board to create a fast track process to get more medical specialists to Australia. The Kruk review explicitly recommended the creation of an alternative fast-track pathway to specialist registration for eligible medical specialists from countries with comparable healthcare systems. https://doctorconnect.blog/3TvPRwq Eligible SIMGs on the expedited specialist pathway will be granted specialist registration with conditions that allow them to work as a specialist while undertaking six months of supervised practice, cultural safety education and an orientation to the Australian healthcare system. The new, expedited pathway for doctors with eligible qualifications will sit alongside the existing pathways to specialist registration, which will remain in place for SIMGs not eligible for the expedited pathway. Over the last year there has also been a 26% decrease in the time taken to assess applications. https://doctorconnect.blog/3ZsdvOm RACGP is committed to doing what it can to make it simpler, less onerous, and more streamlined https://doctorconnect.blog/47ujqED Doctor Connect – Your Partner  Doctor Connect is a medical recruitment specialist with a long history of helping to connect doctors with supportive practices and communities. As well as being able to advise you of your eligibility, and connect you with suitable job options in all regions of Australia, we have an excellent registrations team who will make sure you move through this new expedited process as quick and smoothly as possible. Get in touch with your recruitment consultant today: WhatsApp: +61 459 064 707

If you’re an international doctor planning to work in Australia, one of the first steps you’ll need to take is creating a MyIntealth account. MyIntealth is the secure online portal managed by Intealth, where you can verify your medical credentials through EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials). This verification is required before you can proceed with the Australian Medical Council (AMC) registration process. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the process of accessing MyIntealth and setting up your account. How to Create a MyIntealth Applicant Account Follow these steps to register as a first-time user: Go to the official site – Visit www.myintealth.app , click MyIntealth Applicant Portal , then select Access MyIntealth . Start your account setup – Click “Don’t have a MyIntealth account?” and enter your email address to receive a verification code. Verify your email – Check your inbox, enter the code on the site, and click Verify Code . Once confirmed, click Continue . Create your account – Fill in all required fields and click Create Account . Accept terms – Log in, review the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Notice, then click Next . Access the portal – You’ll land on the MyIntealth Applicant Portal homepage , ready to begin your application and upload documents. Establishing Your MyIntealth Applicant Account Once your profile is active, you can start your application: Click Begin Application for the service you need (e.g., EPIC ). Review the information pages, then click Next . Enter your personal details (name, address, citizenship, etc.) and click Next . Add your medical school by searching its name. If it doesn’t appear, you can add it manually. Include any additional schools if applicable, then click Next . Complete or skip optional sections such as Medical Registration and Additional Information . Review your application summary and click Next . Agree to the terms and conditions by ticking all checkboxes, then click Accept . Enter your payment details and click Pay . Once payment is successful, you’ll see a confirmation message and receive an email. Completing the Intealth Identification Form (IIF) After your initial account request is processed, MyIntealth will notify you when it’s time to complete your Intealth Identification Form (IIF) . Review your personalised IIF. Release it for notarization via NotaryCam , which connects you to licensed U.S. notaries online. Once notarised, your MyIntealth account is fully established, and you can continue with your certification process. MyIntealth Fees (as of September 2025) Here are the current fees associated with MyIntealth: MyIntealth Account Establishment – US$100 Application for ECFMG Certification – US$560 Verification of Credentials for ECFMG Certification – US$200 US$100 for final medical diploma US$100 for final medical school transcript Final Thoughts Setting up your MyIntealth account is the first step toward ECFMG certification and accessing essential services like EPIC. While the process involves multiple steps, including verification, payment, and notarization, once complete, it gives international medical graduates a clear pathway to pursue training and career opportunities in the U.S. At Doctor Connect, we support medical professionals every step of the way. If you’re navigating the MyIntealth application process and need guidance, get in touch with our team today.

1. Proof of Identity You must complete an identity check. AHPRA uses InstaID+, a secure independent provider. Required Documents: Foreign Passport (EU cards are not accepted) Certified copy of the identity information page (photo page) Official English translation (if not in English) Any 2 of the following: Current driver’s license (from a country you have resided in) with photoand signature Foreign marriage certificate Foreign national ID card Foreign birth certificate Current Australian visa (valid at time of entry) — must be provided withoverseas passport or travel document Credit/Debit card 2. Primary Degree A certified copy of your original academic transcript and testimony or certificate thatindicates completion of the qualification. 3. Specialist Qualification Provide certified copies of: MRCGP Certificate & CCT Certificate. 4. Certificates of Good Standing If registered outside Australia, arrange for original Certificates of Registration Status or Certificates of Good Standing to be sent directly from the registering authority to your AHPRA state or territory office. Email for submission: COGS@ahpra.gov.au 5. Criminal History Check Submit the International Criminal History Check (ICHC) reference page from the approved vendor.Apply here:International Criminal History Checks – AHPRA 6. Offer of Employment To be provided by your practice/employer. 7. English Language Proficiency Use the AHPRA self-assessment tool to determine your required pathway and evidence: English Language Skills – AHPRA 8. Confirmation of UK Training Request confirmation of your specialist or GP training from the RCGP via the GMC website. Note: This is different from the CCT document already provided. Document Certification Requirements All certified documents must include the following: Statement: “I have sighted the original document and certify this to be a true copy of the original.” Date of certification Authorised officer’s full name Contact phone number Occupation or profession (and profession number, if applicable) Officer’s stamp or seal, if relevant

Medicare’s 19AB rules require doctors who studied their medical degree outside Australia to work in an area of distribution priority area (DPA) for their first 10 years of practice here. The Department of Health offers a pathway called “scaling” to reduce the 10 year period by working in general practice in more rural and remote areas. Under the scaling system, working in rural and remote areas earns scaling credits. The more remote the location, the more credits you earn. So, if someone works in Toodyay (80 mins drive from the Perth CBD) the RA2 classification means that your moratorium would be 9 years. If you work in Port Hedland (an hour’s flight to Perth), the RA4 classification means that your moratorium will be 6 years. The fact sheet is here . You’ll need to refer to the Health Workforce Locator . Type in the address and tick “ASGS Remoteness Areas 2016”, this will let you know the RA classification. By logging into your Health Professional Online Services account, you can check your current scaling credits, view the date you are eligible for the class exemption from 19AB and check the end date of your moratorium.

Heritage national parks, spectacular waterfalls, and a diverse cultural heritage. Welcome to Armidale, NSW. Located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, the city established  in 1849 is home to more than 25,000 residents. The weather Due to its relatively high elevation, the city that gets to experience all four weather seasons is known for nice warm summers and cold winters.  Schools The city is home to a number of primary and high schools with both public and private options. The city also has a large amount of early childhood centres to choose from. Things to do in Armidale We mentioned the national parks in Armidale and its surroundings, so there’s no shortage of hikes and adventures for those who enjoy the outdoor activities.  The outdoors is not the only thing residents and visitors get to experience. The city also has plenty of shopping options (shopping malls) and of course, plenty of options when it comes to restaurants and cafes. When mentioning Armidale, it’s hard to ignore the many events that the city gets to host and experience, including theatre shows, weekend markets, and a large amount of community events. Further information – Armidale in NSW is MM3 – The median weekly household income is 1,7774

Applying for a Tax File Number in Australia Receiving a Tax File Number (TFN) is crucial for anybody looking to work in Australia. Below is some important information for those looking to start the Tax File Number application process. Key Points: Keep your boarding pass, to confirm the details of your arrival in Australia. It’s a great idea to apply for this in the days after you arrive, to be able to get the process moving. Foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors can apply for a TFN online using Individual Auto Registration (IAR). For more information, go to iar.ato.gov.au To work in Australia, you will need a valid visa.  You can apply for a TFN if you meet all the following 3 conditions: You are a foreign passport holder, permanent migrant or temporary visitor. You are already in Australia. Your visa is one of the following: a permanent resident visa a visa with work rights an overseas student visa a visa allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely (including New Zealanders automatically granted a visa on arrival). To apply online IAR you must have a valid passport or relevant travel documents. If you don’t have a valid visa, you can’t apply for a TFN.

Information For GPs Considering Relocating to Kalgoorlie If you’ve heard of Kalgoorlie, it is likely to do with a conversation regarding gold and history – two things that have helped shape the modern and thriving city that it is today. Located 600kms from Perth (a one-hour flight) the city is home to a population of around 40,000 people. And the people? They come from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds, creating a great environment for families who are looking to relocate to the area. So, what is it about Kalgoorlie that has such a rich history connected to it? Well, the word ‘rich’ is fairly fitting as the city was established in 1893 during the Western Australian gold rushes when gold was discovered in the area, causing a large influx of prospectors from overseas and interstate. History Kalgoorlie’s history is extremely unique. The first sign of gold was discovered in Kalgoorlie in 1893 and since then, the mining of gold has been a major industry in the city and area. Today, the gold mines (and other metals) employ about one quarter of the population and is the home to the annual Diggers and Dealers conference, Australia’s premier mining conference. Things to do Kalgoorlie is a city backed by a vision – a place where people can call home. The growth in population and the development over the years has seen the city host many events such as kids’ festivals, performances, and art competitions. It also offers its residents and visitors many options when it comes to parks, pet friendly locations, cycling trails, walking trails, sports clubs, and many other open public places.  Visit the city of Kalgoorlie website  for the latest news and events in the area. As a home to many families, Kalgoorlie also has an ED department and specialists if a family member is unwell. Schools and Education Kalgoorlie and the area offer many options when it comes to education, including 10 primary schools and four high schools. In 2019, the city of Kalgoorlie launched an education and training guide, helping shape the recognition of importance that the education system holds while also providing support when it comes to careers and goals. Diversity Over the years the city and area have enjoyed not only a growth in population but in diversity, with the city now home to families from the Philipines, New Zealand, Pakistan, India, Australia, South Africa, and England, to name a few. Furthermore, many find the town to be a great culture fit with several cultural features including a Mosque, located in the heart of the city. For any further questions regarding current open opportunities in Kalgoorlie and the area, contact us at Doctor Connect and we will be happy to assist.

Healthcare in Australia is delivered by public and private sector entities and is funded by all levels of government, private health insurers, and out-of-pocket payments by individuals. The Federal Government doesn’t directly fund health service provisions, it funds Medicare benefits. It also jointly funds public hospitals with the States and Territories and provides financial assistance to residential aged care facilities, and home and community care for the aged. Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) benefits are payable for Consultations with doctors. The Medicare Benefits Schedule The MBS is a key component of the Medicare system. It lists a range of professional services, and allocates a unique item number to each service, along with a description of the service (the ‘descriptor’). In broad terms, the types of services on the MBS include consultation and procedural/therapeutic (including surgical) services, as well as diagnostic services. Subsidies for services by eligible health professionals take the form of Medicare benefits paid to the patient. The MBS sets out the ‘Schedule fee’ for each service and the rate/s at which the benefit for that service is to be calculated, as well as providing guidance on the clinical and administrative conditions under which benefits can be claimed. The Schedule fee is a fee-for-service set by the Australian Government and may differ from the provider’s actual fee. Although Medicare is a public scheme, the health professionals providing the services for which benefits are payable are engaged in private businesses – either self-employed, in partnerships, or, increasingly, in corporate entities, small and large. Under the Australian Constitution, the right of medical or dental professionals to set fees at their own discretion is guaranteed. The patient is liable for any difference between the MBS benefit for a service and the actual fee charged by the health professional. This difference is known as an ‘out-of-pocket’ cost. Where the health professional accepts the patient’s assigned Medicare benefit as full payment for the service, there is no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. For full information on the Medicare Benefits Scheme, click here . MBS online Training Medicare provides initial training on the MBS system here .

We have had great feedback from doctors sitting PTE – typically this is the fastest to book, and also the fastest to get a result. Also – please contact us to ask about people’s experience in clubbing their results successfully with AHPRA. What are the English Language Test Requirements to work as a doctor in Australia? AHPRA accepts the IELTS, OET, PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT. They will only accept results from these exams if they were obtained less within 2 years before the date you lodge your AHPRA application, unless you lodge your application for registration within 12 months of finishing your last period of employment. For IELTS you will need a minimum overall score of 7 and a minimum score of 7 in each four components. For OET you will need a minimum score of B in each of the 4 components you are tested in. For the PTE Academic, you will need a minimum overall score of 65 and a minimum score of 65 in each of the four communicative skills. For the TOEFL iBT you will need a minimum total score of 94 and a minimum score of 24 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 for writing, and 23 for speaking. Whilst there are several online versions of the English Language Test- some even run by OET and IELTS- AHPRA has informed that they will not accept the results of these exams. Information from: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Standards/English-language-skills.aspx https://www.australiavisa.com/visas/english-and-skills-assessments/english-tests/ https://ielts.com.au/australia/about/who-accepts-ielts/organisations-that-accept-ielts https://ielts.com.au/australia/results/ielts-band-scores/reading-band-score https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/ https://www.pearsonpte.com/who-accepts-pte/australia/visashttps://advancemed.com.au/blog/english-requirements-for-doctors/

Once your nomination has been lodged, you can apply for your visa as well. For that, need to log in/sign up to a VEVO account on the Immigration website. https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login Once you log in, go to Health option, which is number 6. Fill out all the related information details for the main applicant and dependant as well. (You will need TRN to complete that form which you can ask to immi agent) Then, you will get Hap ID. and receipt as well. For more detail, please follow below website. https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/tools/emedical/emedical-client Then, you need to search for nearest clinic where you go for health check up.  Make sure, you bring Hap ID document with you. Once your health check up is complete, Your result will be directly updated on your VEVO account.

Answer No-one can guarantee that they will be able to have a result back from Immigration in any given time, this process is unpredictable. However, you’ll have the guarantee of having everything inputted correctly. Also, in the case that there is a delay, then the immigration lawyer will have the opportunity and knowledge to contact immigration to review whether there is any issue to be resolved. In some cases, this will assist in in a faster outcome.