Bonded graduates - AMA pushing for changes
The AMACDT Deputy Chair, Dr Chris Wilson, accompanied by an AMA delegation of bonded graduates, attended a meeting last week with the Department of Health (DoH) to press for reforms to both the Bonded Medical Places Program and the Medical Rural Bonded Scholarship Scheme (now closed).
With growing member concerns about the operation of these programs and emerging evidence that they are failing to deliver extra doctors in areas of workforce shortage, AMA representatives made the case for fairer and more flexible return of service arrangements as well greater access to professional and career support.
This meeting was organised following earlier representations by the AMA President to the Assistant Health Minister, the Hon David Gillespie MP, who committed to considering potential changes to both programs.
The DoH will now consider the reform options proposed by the AMA, with further meetings expected over coming weeks.
