Comparing the Fellowship Support Program and the AGPT Program
For medical practitioners aspiring to specialise in general practice in Australia, choosing the right training pathway is crucial. Among the available options, the Fellowship Support Program (FSP) and the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program, offered through the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), stand out. Both programs are designed to guide doctors towards achieving fellowship, but they cater to different needs and circumstances.
What is the Fellowship Support Program?
The Fellowship Support Program is tailored for medical practitioners who seek flexibility in their training process. It allows doctors to prepare for their fellowship exams while working in community settings, which can be particularly appealing for those who prefer learning in a real-world environment over traditional classroom settings.
What is the AGPT Program?
In contrast, the AGPT program is a government-funded training initiative that provides structured and comprehensive training in general practice. It’s aimed at recent graduates or doctors early in their career, providing them with a rigorous curriculum and rotations through various medical specialties.
Differences between programs
| Feature | AGPT Program | Fellowship Support Program (FSP) |
| Flexibility | Structured, less flexible with training locations | High flexibility in choosing training clinic and schedule |
| Pathway Duration | 3-4 years full-time | 2 years – Potentially faster than the AGPT, as exams can be taken earlier when eligible |
| Location Requirements | General or Rural Pathways. Overseas doctors must work in regional/rural areas unless the are granted an exemption | DPA and MMM2+ |
| Support and Resources | Comprehensive support and structured curriculum | Support varies, but includes mentoring and guidance |
| Income | Government-funded positions; includes salary and allowances | Depends on employment conditions with the clinic |
| Entry Requirements | Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident | More inclusive, fewer restrictions on residency status |
| Competitiveness | Highly competitive entry | Competitive, especially for desired locations. You must find a practice prior to applying. |
| Training Scope | Broad and comprehensive training across various settings | Focus on general practice with direct community impact |
| Fees | No tuition fees; paid training positions | Year 1 – $10,000 per term
Year 2 – $6,000 per term |
Application Times
Applications for both the AGPT and the FSP have specific opening and closing times each year:
- AGPT Program: Applications typically open in March and close in April. However, it’s important to check the RACGP website for the exact dates as they can vary slightly each year.
- FSP: The application periods for the FSP can vary but is also generally twice per year. It’s advisable to consult directly with the providers or the RACGP website for the most accurate and current information.
Both the Fellowship Support Program and the AGPT program have their pros and their cons. Your choice between the two should depend on your personal circumstances, career goals, and the type of training environment you thrive in.
If you value flexibility and are looking for a quicker route to your exams, the FSP might be the way to go.
If you prefer a structured pathway with comprehensive training and financial support, the AGPT could be a better fit.
Contact Alecto Australia for more information.