Understanding PESCI
International medical graduates (IMGs) aiming for limited or provisional registration might find themselves facing a crucial hurdle: the Pre-employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI). This pivotal step allows the Board to determine if registration should be granted, shaping the future path of these dedicated professionals.
PESCI provides a thorough evaluation of your expertise, skills, clinical experience, and credentials to determine your readiness for a specific role. It involves a dynamic clinical interview with diverse scenarios to assess your capabilities.
Who needs a PESCI?
PESCI is a requirement for IMGs seeking limited or provisional registration to practise in general practice in Australia. IMGs on the specialist pathway aren’t required to undertake a PESCI as they are evaluated by the relevant specialist medical college.
When is the right time to schedule a PESCI?
You should consider scheduling a PESCI prior to applying for registration only if you fulfill the board’s registration standards for your registration type.
There is an exception to this advice for applicants applying for limited registration for area of need to work in general practice.
Limited Registration for Area of Need
IMGs applying for limited registration in the area of need category to work in general practice are required to have at least three years of full-time equivalent (FTE) experience in general practice or primary care.
The AHPRA suggests that you consider applying for registration before scheduling a PESCI so that it can evaluate your experience in general practice or primary care. Apart from PESCI outcomes, the rest of your registration application should be completed.
The PESCI Process
PESCI is undertaken by AMC-accredited organizations.
In the PESCI assessment, a panel assesses your training, knowledge, clinical experience, and qualifications in comparison to the requirements of the position you are applying for. This evaluation process includes a series of targeted questions and scenarios relevant to the specific role in an interview setting. The resulting PESCI report is unique to the position evaluated and cannot be transferred to other positions.
The PESCI panel consists of a minimum of three interviewers, with at least two being registered medical practitioners. The remaining panel member could be a layperson, another health practitioner, or a registered medical practitioner.
PESCI Panel Suggestions
The PESCI provider will deliver PESCI results to both you and the Board. The provider will also offer recommendations about the level of supervision required and define any additional education, retraining or skills enhancement needed if you are deemed suitable for the position.
Although the Board considers PESCI panel recommendations, the final decision factors in multiple aspects including the requirements of the National Law such as maintaining recent practice standards, criminal history, professional indemnity insurance coverage, and proficiency in English.
If granted registration, the Board may mandate closer supervision than suggested by the PESCI panel due to various reasons such as lack of recent practice in your field of work or unfamiliarity with the Australian healthcare system.
Impact of Unsuccessful PESCI Result
PESCI panel recommendations are tailored to specific positions. If you are deemed unsuitable for one role, you may be well-suited for another that provides appropriate support and supervision aligned with your training, knowledge, and experience level.
Additional PESCIs might be needed if you are applying for a different position.
Recognised PESCI Providers by AMC
The AMC recognizes the following PESCI providers:
• Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (All States and Territories)
• METC Institute Pty Ltd trading as Institute of Medical Education (All States and Territories)
• Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (All States and Territories)
If you need help or more information about PESCI, feel free to schedule a consultation with us. We’re dedicated to helping and guiding you at every turn, making sure you’re fully equipped and informed. Your success is our top priority!
FAQ
How long does my PESCI result last?
Your PESCI results will last up to 12 months from the date of your results. It’s important to note that if your circumstances or the position you are applying for changes significantly, you may need to undergo another PESCI assessment.
Can I get a PESCI exemption?
PESCI’s are designed to assess and determine whether you are suitable to practice in a specific position, therefore, exemptions are rarely granted. To apply for a PESCI exemption through AHPRA, you will need to submit a request for an exemption with your original application. The request must be lodged with AHPRA. Please be aware that ACRRM is not able to grant exemptions.
