Rockhampton Hospital has been awarded the maximum possible accreditation to train a new generation of obstetricians and gynaecologists in a clear sign of confidence in Central Queensland’s maternity services.
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) granted full accreditation of five years to the hospital after it met strict training, supervision and support criteria.
The accreditation means Rockhampton Hospital will continue as a training base for junior doctors and play a key role in helping address the global shortage of obstetricians and gynaecologists.
Clinical Director Dr Preeti Patil says the accreditation is recognition that Rockhampton Hospital is a wonderful place to work and learn, and clearly demonstrates trainees will receive the best training and support.
“To receive accreditation for the maximum five-year period was validation for a year of hard work,” Preeti said.
"Our team worked incredibly hard to meet the strict criteria of ensuring doctors in training had access to specialists, strong education and research, and established care and wellbeing programs.
“This accreditation is very important when it comes to recruiting the best candidates for training positions, which in turn means we can provide the best care for our patients.
Clinical Director, Dr Preeti Patil
Rockhampton Hospital already held a five-year accreditation from RANZCOG and the college’s latest decision to renew it reflected the hospital’s moves to strengthen its clinical supervision, structured training programs and registrar support for junior staff.
Rural Generalist Trainee Dr Michael Pitt has chosen Obstetrics and Gynaecology as his advanced skill and is grateful for the experience he has gained working in Rockhampton.
“We work very closely with the consultants in our training, and we gain a lot of exposure by working on a lot of cases,” he said.
“This gives us a lot of responsibility, but with good specialist support.
“I’m going to be able to take those skills and knowledge to a rural community to allow women and families to stay in their home communities.”