Starting your First Job as an IMG Doctor in Australia: How to Mentally Prepare

Starting a new Job as an IMG Doctor in Australia is a big change, and with big change comes an even bigger adjustment period!
No one really talks about how to manage your expectations when starting you new role as a Doctor in a foreign country, and how to be realistic and honest with yourself about the potential struggles you might encounter.
In this Podcast we discuss what its like to start your new job, the feelings that you might have at the start, but more importantly, how to address them and move forward.
Its ok to not feel ok in the beginning.
Its Normal!
Be patient and kind to yourself -
You will get there!

[@flare2874]

Thank you so much for this video! I'm coming to Australia for internship and this is gonna be a whole new experience and I was unaware how challenging it's gonna be. Everyone else says just enjoy the time there, it's gonna be okay but none actually provide the perspective you had. It makes me re-adjust my readiness, expectation and preparation for this. Hope you guys continue to make great videos like this! 😊

[@codeyouaustralia]

You are so welcome! This is the reason we decided to make this- because so many people are caught off guard when they arrive! Nothing to be scared of, just something to be aware of! So happy to have been able to help!

[@kimberlymendoza3761]

This is as true as it gets for me. Been working in the Philippines for 4 years, completed my specialty boards and worked as a junior consultant. When I started work here, it was a totally different ball game and I have not been prepared for it partly because of those false reassurances. 6 months into work, I still feel the same! It does get to my mental health but it’s nice to hear you guys talk about it. I thought I was the only one feeling this way. 😅 Love your work!

[@codeyouaustralia]

I'm so glad you found this relatable. We have read your message a few times and we are so taken back at how this one conversation has made others feel less isolate about their own similar situation. Just know we all feel this way at the start. Everyday remind yourself of the hurdles you jumped through to land this job and just how tough you are... Use that to get through this adjustment period. Also have a plan for every rotation you are about to start. I find making plans makes us less anxious because we feel somewhat prepared.

[@kdgjmm]

Good video guys! 6 months in I always remind myself that I need to be kind to myself, I am adapting to a new place, new workplace, and new healthcare system. And another thing I would like to add, therapy is definitely helpful to help organise your thoughts and plan on next steps.

[@codeyouaustralia]

Thank you so much! You have to be kind to yourself and just know that it gets so much better. Therapy is definitely a great tool!

[@nilukarathnayake2376]

Thank you for this 'realistic' talk. !! Much awaited one.🤎

[@codeyouaustralia]

Thank you! 💙 I know this realistic talk can make us less popular but I think it's time we stop sugar coating the IMG experience and admit how hard it is BUT give tactics from our own negative experience to make it better for others.

[@roveenachalsi]

This is the best talk I’ve heard about working with Australian healthcare system for IMGs. Extremely insightful and valuable. Thanks heaps.

[@medfreak]

Plz keep making these videos u guys have inspired me❤ to

[@drmedemilie]

How can I prepare beforehand? I’m a doctor in Germany with two year experience in internal medicine.

[@mithraabaskar3868]

Thank you for this insightful talk, much appreciated. I am an Img from UK and am planning to get into surgical training in Australia, however I have been told that its next to impossible for IMGs to get into surgical training in Australia. Can you please offer any advice regarding this pls ? Thank you very much

[@BNT8]

Why not do surgical training in UK?

[@medsmashers]

Hey if I have a career in dermatology here in my country.... will I get job in dermatology field after clearing both amc 1 and 2? My dream subject is dermatology please help me I am from Bangladesh and preparing for amc 1 now

[@codeyouaustralia]

Ok so two ways to go about this..one is to apply directly through the specialist pathway. This means you have to contact the training school of dermatology Australia and let them guide you. They will decide if your qualifications can transfer here without needing to do AMC 1 or 2. Some say the specialist pathway is very difficult and expensive. Each speciality is different so I would ignore what others tell you and explore that option first!! If you decide it isn't an option, you go through the standard pathway. You will need to work in a hospital in all rotations, have your general registration to then apply to the derm training school. So essentially, starting from scratch. Is derm very hard to get into in Australia? ..Yes! They only take a small amount each year. Never say never but it's just something to consider..

[@medsmashers]

@@codeyouaustralia thank you so so much doctor ❤️❤️ your comment is very informative and detailed... You actually took a time for writing this big reply much appreciated doctor ❤️❤️.... I was really worried about this things and didnt have clear idea and your comment cleared my doubts....I will save your comment for my future... thank you again ❤️

[@7amzawi-Senpai]

be Proactive not Reactive 👍