Specialty overview

Gastroenterologists diagnose, treat and manage patients with disorders affecting the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and the biliary system, which includes the liver, pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts.

Clinical practice

Gastroenterologists work within both public and private facilities to provide high quality, comprehensive care for their patients. Many Gastroenterologists additionally work within academic settings, performing the bulk of research into gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures, as well as the interpretation of results. Because of this, Gastroenterologists are often required to provide consultant services to other physicians and surgeons who perform these procedures.

Key statistics

2024 QLD Training program selections(first year)

33
eligible

7
selected

This doughnut chart shows the proportion of applications recieved vs applicants selected. Eligible applications received is 33, Applicants selected is 7.

Number of Queensland and Australian specialists

194

Number of QLD specialists

938

Number of Australian specialists

Number of Queensland and Australian new fellows

14

Number of QLD new fellows

157

Number of Australian new fellows

Number of Queensland trainees and average work hours

29

Number of QLD trainees

43.1

Average weekly hours

Information on specialists

  • 194

    Number of QLD specialists

  • 29

    Number of QLD new fellows

  • 43.1 hours

    Average weekly hours QLD

  • 49 years

    Average age QLD

  • Specialists over 60

    This donut chart shows that 19% of specialists are aged over 60 years.

  • Specialist intending to retire by 2033

    This donut chart shows that 40% of 2022 workforce intend to retire by 2033.

  • Location in Queensland

    This donut chart shows the percentage of specialists by their location: 13.3% are located in regional Queensland, 86.7% 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

    72%
    male

    28%
    female

    This doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 72%, Females are 28%.

  • Public vs Private

    48.2%
    private

    51.8%
    public

    This doughnut chart shows the proportion of public and private specialists. Private is 48.2%, Public is 51.8%.

Information on trainees

  • 29

    Number of Queensland trainees

  • 9

    Number of new Queensland trainees

  • 157

    Number of Australian trainees

  • 62

    Number of new Australian trainees

  • Proportion female/male trainees in Queensland

    62%
    male

    38%
    female

    This doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 62%, Females are 38%.

  • 2024 QLD Training program selections (first year)

    33
    eligible

    7
    selected

    This doughnut chart shows the number of 2024 QLD Training Program Selections (First Year). 33 Eligible applications were received, 7 of those were selected.

Number of Queensland trainees 2015-2023

This line chart shows the trend of the number of Queensland trainees from 2015 to 2023. The data points are: 2015 - 20 trainees, 2016 - 21 trainees, 2017 - 25 trainees, 2018 - 22 trainees, 2019 - 25 trainees, 2020 - 26 trainees, 2021 - 32 trainees, 2022 - 26 trainees, 2023 - 29 trainees.

What our staff have to say

Testimonial icon

Dr Ruth Hodgson

Gastroenterologist
The Prince Charles Hospital

The holistic nature of gastroenterology appealed to me over other procedural specialties, and since I started it has only grown in scope and relevance. It is the perfect mix of intellectual stimulation and practical activity. Within gastroenterology there are many varied subspecialties, so there is something for everyone. I appreciate being able to help people and improve their quality of life, often with quite simple interventions. I have never regretted choosing gastroenterology over other career paths, and would do the same again.

Training information

College

Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP)

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 pathway/network (centrally coordinated)

Training and assessment summary

The Queensland Gastroenterology Advanced Training Program facilitates centralised recruitment to gastroentereology registrar positions across the state. For detailed information in relation to training and assessment requirements, please contact RACP.

Training program overview

Gastroenterology and Hepatology advanced training may be undertaken following completion of requirements for basic training with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). Training incorporates work-based learning and assessment, with successful trainees attaining the qualification of FRACP with accreditation to practice as an Gastroenterologist in Australia or New Zealand.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold current medical registration, have completed RACP Basic Training (including Written and Clinical Examinations), and been appointed 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.

Training locations

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Last updated: September 2024

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