CREST Program

Internation Medical Graduates Support Program

Register here for 2025 CREST Program

Welcome to the CREST Program!

The CREST Program is a comprehensive initiative to support International Medical Graduates (IMGs) as they transition into the Australian healthcare system. At Joondalup Health Campus, we understand the unique challenges IMGs face, from navigating new clinical environments to adapting to diverse epidemiological patterns and cultural expectations in patient care.

Our program is tailored to equip IMGs with the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in their roles. The CREST Program fosters a strong foundation in key areas, including clinical reasoning, communication, prioritisation, decision-making, and medico-legal and ethical considerations. In addition, the program offers specialized preparation for the AMC Part 2 Clinical Examination, ensuring participants are well-prepared for their professional milestones.

Through interactive workshops, hands-on simulations, and expert mentorship, the CREST Program provides a supportive learning environment that empowers IMGs to succeed in their medical careers and deliver high-quality patient care.

Whether you’re starting your journey in the Australian healthcare system or looking to refine your skills, the CREST Program is here to guide you every step.

 Component 1: Induction Program (2 months)

 Component 2: AMC 2 Clinical Exam Preparation Program (4 months)

Program Duration: 6 months

Start Date: February 4th Feb 2025

Frequency: Weekly sessions for the Induction program, followed by Bi-weekly sessions for the rest of the program

Component 1: Induction Program (2 months)

 Program Objectives:

  • Equip IMGs with essential knowledge and skills for successful clinical practice in Australia.
  • Build confidence in history taking, clinical reasoning, communication, prioritization, and decision-making.
  • Foster integration into the Joondalup Health Campus community and Australian healthcare system.

 Program Structure:

  • Monthly sessions (4 weeks): Each month will focus on a broad clinical theme, with each week delving deeper into specific aspects.
  • Format: Each session will include a mix of lectures, case scenarios, small group discussions, simulation exercises, and practical skill demonstrations.
  • Mentorship program: Pair IMGs with experienced clinicians for ongoing support and guidance.

Monthly Themes and Weekly Topics:

Month 1: Foundations of Australian Healthcare

  • Week 1: Welcome and Introduction to Australian Healthcare System (Public vs. Private, Medicare, Healthcare Teams)
  • Week 2: History Taking and Physical Examination Skills (Techniques, Cultural Considerations)
  • Week 3: Procedural Skills and Clinical Techniques (Common Procedures, Equipment Familiarization)
  • Week 4: Professionalism and Ethics (Medical-Legal Issues, Team Dynamics, Cultural Humility)

Month 2: Core Clinical Practice Skills

  • Week 5: Clinical Reasoning and Differential Diagnosis (Diagnostic Strategies, Evidence-Based Medicine)
  • Week 6: Prioritization and Decision-Making (Clinical Practice Guidelines, Escalation of Care)
  • Week 7: Communication Skills (Patient Communication, Breaking Bad News, Cultural Competency)
  • Week 8: Introduction- AMC 2 Exam
  • Introduction to the AMC 2 exam format, structure, and expectations.
  • Overview of OSCE stations and scoring criteria.
  • Introduction to communication skills assessment in clinical scenarios. 

 

Component 2: AMC 2 Clinical Exam Preparation Program (4 months)

 Program Objectives:

  • Equip IMGs with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully pass the AMC Clinical Exam (AMC 2).
  • Enhance understanding of core medical topics across key specialties: medicine, surgery, paediatrics, general practice, and communication.
  • Build confidence in clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and application of knowledge to clinical scenarios.

Program Structure:

  • Monthly themes: Each month will focus on a specific theme, encompassing relevant topics across the five key areas.
  • Bi-weekly sessions (2 per month): Sessions will be held every other week, allowing for dedicated study time and application of learned concepts.
  • Format: Sessions will include a mix of lectures, OSCE practice with constructive feedback.

 

Monthly Themes and Weekly Topics:

Month 3-4: Specialty Focus – Medicine, Surgery, Obstetric and Gynae

Week 1-2: Internal Medicine

  • Common medical conditions and their management.
  • Interpretation of diagnostic tests. 

Week 3-4: Surgery and Obstetric/Gynae

  • Surgery OSCEs
  • Obstetric/Gynae
    • Obstetric and gynaecological history taking.
    • Antenatal and postnatal care OSCEs
    • Common gynaecological conditions OSCEs

 

Month 5: Specialty Focus – Paediatrics, Psychiatry, and Communication Skills

Week 1-2: Paediatrics

  • Paediatric history taking and examination.
  • Common Childhood Illnesses OSCEs

Week 3-4: Psychiatry and Communication Skills

  • Psychiatric Assessment:
    • Psychiatric history taking.
    • Mental state examination.
    • Psychiatry OSCEs
  • Communication and Counselling:
    • Breaking bad news.

Month 6: OSCE Practice and Mock Exams 

Week 1-3: OSCE Practice Sessions

  • Rotational Stations:
    • Medicine, Surgery, Obs/Gynae, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, and Communication Skills.
  • Structured Feedback:
    • Individualized feedback on performance.
    • Tips for improvement in specific areas.

 Week 4-6: Mock Exam (if possible)

  • Full-length Mock Exams:
    • Simulated exam environment with timed stations.
    • Detailed feedback sessions after each mock exam.
  • Final Review and Exam Strategies:
    • Revision of high-yield topics.
    • Time management strategies for the exam day.
    • Stress management techniques.

Additional Support and Resources:

  • Study Materials:
    • Provide recommended textbooks and online resources- Dropbox link
    • Access to medical journals and research articles.
  • Mentorship and Support:
    • To guide IMGs throughout the program.
    • Q&A sessions and online forums for doubt clarification.
  • Networking Opportunities:
    • Guest lectures by experienced medical professionals- Dr Neppe, Dr Vergesse
    • Networking events with local doctors and healthcare professionals- WhatsApp group
  • Ad hoc sessions are held according to the needs of the candidates.

 

For more info- email:

Nicki Williams (Medical Education Support Officer) williamsn@ramsayhealth.com.au

Dr PS Bhowmik- bhowmikp@ramsayhealth.com.au