A Guide for UK SIMGs Navigating the ACEM Specialist Assessment Pathway

The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) offers an established Specialist Assessment Pathway for Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs), including UK-trained emergency physicians, who wish to gain recognition and practice as specialists in Emergency Medicine in Australia. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how UK SIMGs can obtain recognition, complete the assessment process, and achieve specialist registration.

Step 1: Eligibility/DOocuments

Before applying, UK Emergency Physicians should ensure they meet ACEM’s eligibility criteria. The Specialist Assessment pathway is for doctors who:

• Have completed specialist training in Emergency Medicine outside of Australia.
• Are recognized as a specialist in their home country.
• Are seeking specialist registration with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA).

To apply, you’ll need to submit the following:   

• Identity & Registration: Certified copy of passport, medical registration certificates (e.g., GMC), and AMC verification of your primary medical degree.
• Qualifications: Certified copies of your medical degree (MBBS/MBChB), Emergency Medicine specialist qualifications, and training completion certificates.
• CV: Detailed CV outlining your medical education, specialist training, clinical roles, subspecialty exposure (e.g., paediatrics, toxicology), and any research or leadership experience.
• References: 2–3 references from senior Emergency Physicians, confirming your clinical competence and professionalism, ideally from your most recent employer.
• Clinical Experience Evidence: Logbooks, case summaries, certificates of rotations or attachments, and past performance evaluations or supervisor reports.
• English Language Proficiency (if required): IELTS, OET, or equivalent (usually not required for UK-trained doctors).
• Application Forms & Payment: Completed ACEM application form and proof of application fee payment (check ACEM website for the current fee).

Once you’ve gathered all documents, submit your application online via the ACEM Specialist Assessment Portal. ACEM will conduct a paper-based assessment to confirm your eligibility and may request an interview.

Timeline:

• Standard assessments take several months.
• No expedited pathways are available for Emergency Medicine.

Step 2: Initial Assessment and Interview

The ACEM Specialist Assessment Committee evaluates the applicant’s qualifications, experience, and scope of practice compared to the competencies expected of a newly elected Fellow (FACEM).

Pathway Considerations:

• Eligible applicants are invited for a formal interview
• Interviews are usually conducted online
• The interview assesses:

1. Clinical knowledge and decision-making
2. Procedural skills and emergency management
3. Communication, leadership, and teamwork
4. Experience across adult, paediatric, and trauma care

Step 3: Assessment Outcomes

After the interview, ACEM determines comparability to FACEM standards. Possible outcomes:

Substantially Comparable

• Training and experience closely match Australian standards
• May require a supervised placement in an emergency department with workplace-based assessments

Partially Comparable

• Training meets high standards but with some gaps
• Requires additional supervised practice and targeted assessments

Not Comparable

• Training does not align with ACEM standards
• Applicant may need to undertake ACEM Fellowship training from the beginning

Appeals: Decisions can be appealed according to ACEM’s Specialist Assessment Appeals process

Step 4: Curriculum Standards and Supervised Placement

ACEM Fellowship training is competency-based, emphasising:

• Emergency clinical assessment and management
• Resuscitation and acute procedural skills
• Communication, leadership, and team management
• Cultural competence and patient safety

Placement Requirements for Substantial/Partial Comparability:

• Employment in an emergency department under supervision by FACEMs
• Submission of workplace-based assessments
• Periodic performance reviews

Placements can occur in public or private emergency departments and are approved by ACEM.

Step 5: Fellowship and Specialist Registration

Once all supervised placement and assessment requirements are met, candidates can apply for ACEM Fellowship (FACEM).

Fellowship allows registration with:

• Medical Board of Australia (specialist registration)

Associated Cost

Applicants should be prepared for financial commitments, which may include:

• Application Fees (see the ACEM website for current rates)
• Assessment & Interview Fees
• Supervised Placement Fees (workplace-based assessments, supervision)
• Additional fees for assessments or exams if partially comparable
• Fellowship and membership fees
• For a full breakdown of costs and the latest information, please refer to the ACEM website.

Final Thoughts

The ACEM Specialist Assessment Pathway provides UK-trained emergency physicians with a clear route to recognition and specialist registration in Australia. Preparing early, understanding the comparability process, and budgeting for associated costs ensures a smooth transition to clinical practice abroad.

Want to Know More?

Emergency Medicine roles are in high demand across Australia. For personalised guidance or to start your application:

📩 Email your CV to: aus@bdirecruiting.com

 A member of the team will reach out to help you take the next step.