Specialty overview
Addiction medicine physicians provide comprehensive care to patients who suffer from a range of addiction disorders, including patients who suffer drug and alcohol addiction or pharmaceutical dependency.
Clinical practice
Addiction medicine physicians work within both public and private facilities to improve the health outcomes of their patients. Addiction medicine physicians also play an important role in shaping public policy in the areas of health protection, prevention and health promotion, thereby improving public and population health outcomes.
Key statistics
Number of Queensland and Australian specialists
Number of Queensland and Australian new fellows
Number of Queensland trainees and average work hours
Information on specialists
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Specialists over 60
This donut chart shows that 50% of specialists are aged over 60 years. -
Specialist intending to retire by 2034
This donut chart shows that 50% of 2023 workforce intend to retire by 2034. -
Location in QLD
This donut chart shows the percentage of specialists by their location: 14.3% are located in regional QLD, 92.9% are in major cities, and 0% are in remote areas. The chart highlights that a vast majority of specialists are based in major cities. -
Proportion Female/Male - QLD
73.3%
male26.7%
femaleThis doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 85.7%, Females are 14.3%. -
Public vs Private
14.2%
private86.7%
publicThis doughnut chart shows the proportion of public and private specialists. Private is 7.1%, Public is 92.9%.
Information on trainees
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Proportion female/male trainees in QLD
43%
male57%
femaleThis doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 43%, Females are 57%.
Number of QLD trainees 2015-2023
What our staff have to say
Dr Jeremy Hayllar
Director of Alcohol & Drug Services
Biala Community Health Service
Seeing change happen and witnessing people getting back on track is very rewarding. Of course each patient has agency, however good management of their substance use disorder can really support their recovery.
Training information
College
Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Australasian Chapter of Addiction Medicine (RACP-AChAM)
Length of training
6 years full-time (3 years basic training, 3 years advanced training)
Method of allocation
College-selected trainees may be allocated to a training post by:
- Queensland Health facility (accredited for training)
Training and assessment summary
For detailed information in relation to training and assessment requirements, please contact RACP-AChAM.
Training program overview
Addiction medicine advanced training is overseen by the Chapter of Addiction Medicine (AChAM) following completion of requirements for basic training with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). Training incorporates work-based learning and assessment which builds on existing cognitive and practical skills, with successful trainees attaining the qualification of Fellowship of AChAM.
Eligibility
Applicants must hold current medical registration, have completed either RACP Basic Training requirements or hold fellowship of a chapter approved college or faculty, and have secured appointment to an appropriate Advanced Training position.
Flexibility
Minimum 0.2 full-time equivalent commitment. Training program must be completed within 8 years.
Interrupted training
Allowed. Interruptions of more than 12 continuous months may require the development of a Return to Training Plan in collaboration with a supervisor and approval from the relevant training committee.