A Gastroenterology trainee can expect to have specialised training in the prevention, investigation, treatment, and research into illnesses involving the gastrointestinal tract and liver. The training combines practical learning and assessment tools to prepare you for independent practice.

A Gastroenterologist is a specialist physician in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. Gastroenterologists are trained to conduct investigative diagnostic procedures such as gastroscopy, X-rays, CT scans, blood and stool tests, colonoscopy, or endoscopy. These procedures help pinpoint the cause of stomach and intestinal conditions and diseases. Among other diagnostic indicators, these tests are designed to understand digestive system motility and how well someone’s body absorbs and utilises nutrients. Gastroenterologists help their patients overcome coeliac disease, hepatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, colitis, gastro-oesophageal disease, gallbladder and biliary tract diseases, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Gastroenterology is a complex and varied specialty field. Apart from the applied learning and technical skills gained in the advanced training, there are several attributes of reputable Gastroenterologists, which are listed below.  

Good leadership

Great Gastroenterologists are excellent leaders who can direct and coordinate other health professionals. Effective communication and coordination will help health professionals to work as a team to produce positive health outcomes for patients.  

Attention to detail 

Attention to detail is critical in the identification and diagnosis of medical conditions. Gastroenterologists need to meticulously understand and interpret results to identify, diagnose, and ultimately improve their patient’s quality of life. 

Decision making & problem-solving 

To successfully manage patients’ gastrointestinal problems or diseases, Gastroenterologists need to make quick decisions whilst managing multiple patients at a time. These specialists need to be effective problem solvers to coordinate care for patients safely and efficiently.

Although you can break up your training, it is not advised. Pausing the training for one year or longer will mean re-sitting some assessments. Meanwhile, taking a break for longer than two years may mean some examinations and course materials will need to be re-completed or re- examined. Therefore, most trainees complete the Gastroenterology training in one block. 

The number of trainees selected per year varies. In 2021, 6 applicants were chosen to enter their first year of training in Queensland from 36 eligible applications. Across Australia, there were 143 trainees in 2019, with 56 of those new to the trainee program. In total, there were 895 specialists in Australia in 2019. 

There are countless reasons why North Queensland is one of the best places on the planet to work, live, and study. No matter what stage or age you are in, Northern Queensland offers a great balance between work and leisure.

Visitors and residents find the North Queensland lifestyle relaxed and laid-back. The people are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and hiking, and when the sun goes down, there are also many bars, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.

North Queensland has the convenience of cities close by, all of which have reasonable housing costs and expansive landscapes to explore nearby. The region combines quality education and the chance to pursue a relaxed or adventurous lifestyle, depending on your preference. The area has a warm climate all year round, beautiful beaches and rainforests, and is home to a diverse range of cultures and lifestyles, making Northern Queensland hard to beat. 

Each regional centre in North Queensland is small enough to escape the crowded nature of big city living, but they still have enough going on for you to socialise and entertain yourself. And with short commute times putting more hours back into your workday, you’ll have plenty of time to explore when offered the chance. 

Networking and industry social opportunities frequently happen due to the tight-knit and collaborative nature of the health and hospital communities here. The vision to improve the health of the communities throughout the region, unites the students, interns, junior doctors, and specialists training and working here. Together we hope to address the shortage of doctors in North Queensland. 

Our training region ensures trainees have access to a wide range of hospital and health settings of varying sizes and capabilities offering a diverse case load and case mix. These training areas include the following health service areas: Cairns, Central West, Mackay, North West, Torres and Cape, and Townsville.

References

• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/Gastroenterologist-services
• https://www.healthline.com/find-care/articles/gastroenterologists/what-is-a-gastroenterologist
• https://medinav.health.qld.gov.au/careers/medicine/gastroenterology-and-hepatology/
• https://www.racp.edu.au/trainees/advanced-training/advanced-training-programs/gastroenterology