A Guide for UK Intensivist Navigating the CICM Specialist Assessment Pathway

The College of Intensive Care Medicine of Australia and New Zealand (CICM) oversees the training and accreditation of intensive care specialists across both countries.
UK-trained intensive care consultants who have completed their specialist training and wish to practice in Australia must undergo the Specialist International Medical Graduate (SIMG) Assessment Pathway.

This pathway evaluates international specialists’ training, experience, and qualifications to determine equivalence with Australian standards.

Step 1: Eligibility/Documents

Before applying, UK-trained intensive care doctors must ensure their qualifications meet CICM and Australian Medical Council (AMC) requirements.

Primary Source Verification (PSV)

• Complete PSV through the Australian Medical Council (AMC).

You’ll need the following documents:

• Identity & Registration: Certified copy of passport, medical registration certificates (e.g., GMC), and AMC verification of your medical degree.
• Certified copies of postgraduate psychiatry qualifications (CCT/FFICM.)
• CV: A detailed CV with your medical school, postgraduate training, specialist experience, and Subspecialty exposure (e.g., cardiac, neuro, trauma, or paediatric intensive care)
• References: 2–3 references from senior physicians confirming your competence and professionalism.
• Clinical Experience: Logbooks, case summaries, or performance evaluations.
• English Proficiency (if required): IELTS, OET, or equivalent (usually not required for UK-trained doctors).
• Certificates of rotations, attachments, or subspecialty training
• Past performance evaluations or supervisor reports
• Payment: Proof of application fee payment 

Step 2: Submit an Application

The CICM SIMG application process differs depending on where the applicant seeks to register.

For Applicants Seeking Recognition in Australia

• Apply directly to the College (CICM).
• CICM conducts the assessment on behalf of the Medical Board of Australia (MBA).
• The process involves:
  1. Preliminary Review – CICM reviews submitted documentation and experience.
  2. Interview (if required) – conducted by the SIMG Committee to assess comparability.
  3. Outcome Notification – applicants are informed once the result is ratified by CICM.

Step 3: Interview and Assessment

If eligible, applicants will be invited to an interview with the CICM SIMG Committee.
 The interview typically explores:

• Depth and scope of training and experience in intensive care medicine
• Knowledge of the Australian/New Zealand healthcare environment
• Leadership, decision-making, and communication skills
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) participation
• Understanding of clinical governance and safety principles

Interview Rounds (Australia)

CICM holds five interview rounds per year for Australian applicants.

Step 4: Assessment Outcomes

Following the assessment, CICM will determine equivalence to Australian and New Zealand standards.

Australian Assessment Outcomes

• Substantially Comparable – Training and experience closely match Australian standards; may require only limited supervised practice.
• Partially Comparable – High-quality background but with specific gaps; further supervised practice or assessments required.
• Not Comparable – Training does not meet the standard; applicant must complete the CICM Fellowship Training Program.

Each applicant receives a personalised list of requirements to complete before being eligible for Fellowship.

Step 5: Supervised Practice and Requirements

All SIMGs accepted onto the pathway are required to complete a period of supervised clinical practice.
The duration and structure depend on the comparability outcome but must typically commence within 12 months of the interim assessment.

During supervised practice, applicants may need to:

• Work under a Fellow of CICM approved as a supervisor.
• Submit periodic supervision and performance reports.
• Participate in multi-source feedback (MSF) and workplace-based assessments.
• Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities as an Educational Affiliate.

Failure to commence supervised practice within the designated timeframe may result in the assessment outcome lapsing.

Step 6: Certification and Fellowship

Upon completion of all prescribed requirements, applicants may apply for:

• Fellowship of the College of Intensive Care Medicine (FCICM)
• Specialist registration with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA)

CICM’s SIMG Committee will review and recommend the application for endorsement by the College Council.
 Certification and registration can take several months once all documentation is submitted.

Associated Costs

Applicants should prepare for financial commitments when applying through CICM. 

All fees are in Australian dollars (AUD) and subject to change. Applicants should confirm the latest amounts on the CICM website.

Final Thoughts

The CICM SIMG Pathway provides a transparent and structured process for UK-trained intensive care specialists seeking to work in Australia or New Zealand.
 By preparing comprehensive documentation, understanding eligibility requirements, and planning for the interview and supervised practice, applicants can achieve a smooth transition to specialist recognition abroad.

Want to Know More?

With Intensive Care Medicine roles in high demand across Australia, now is the perfect time for UK-trained specialists to advance their careers overseas.

📩 Email your CV to aus@bdirecruiting.com
 A member of the team will contact you to provide guidance and discuss current opportunities in intensive care.