Many doctors who try regional work end up staying far longer than they planned. The work is varied, the communities are appreciative and the lifestyle can be wonderful. But regional roles are different from metro ones in ways that aren't always obvious from a job ad. Here's what to think about before you go.

Understand the clinical load

In a regional service you're often the most senior person of your specialty for a long way. That means more autonomy, a broader mix of presentations and sometimes heavier on-call. Ask about on-call frequency, what backup is available after hours, and how transfers to tertiary centres work. These details shape your week more than anything else.

Ask about the team

How many doctors are in the service, and how many positions are filled by locums? Are there registrars or junior doctors? What allied health and nursing support is there? A well-staffed small team can be a better experience than an understaffed large one.

Get clear on travel and accommodation

For locum roles, travel and accommodation are often included, but it varies. Check exactly what's covered: flights, a car, the standard of accommodation and whether it's close to the hospital. For permanent roles, ask about relocation support and what the housing market is like. In some regional towns, finding a rental is the hardest part of the move.

Think about outreach

Many regional services cover a large area, and the role may include visiting smaller towns or remote communities, in person or via telehealth. That can be a highlight of the job, but it's worth knowing how much travel is involved.

Consider your life outside work

  • If you have a partner, are there work opportunities for them?
  • If you have children, what are the schools and childcare like?
  • How easy is it to get home to see family and friends?
  • What do you enjoy outside work, and can you do it there?

Check the practical requirements

Credentialing for a new health service takes time, so start early. For GPs, it's also worth understanding how a location is classified. Some doctors with Medicare provider number restrictions can only bill Medicare in certain areas, such as Distribution Priority Areas. Our GP recruitment page explains more.

Try before you commit

A locum is the easiest way to find out whether a town and a service suit you. You get to know the team and the community without uprooting your life. Plenty of permanent appointments start this way.

If you're curious about regional work, tell us what you're looking for. For a taste of what's out there, see our location spotlight on Broome.