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Observership positions

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Observerships at the Alfred ICU provide the opportunity to observe the intensive care unit, attend ward rounds, education programs and clinical meetings as well as share ideas with the Alfred team.

Observerships do not offer direct patient contact or the opportunity to perform procedures or ECMO cannulations. They are available for a minimum of 2 weeks and up to a 6-week visit.

Eligibility criteria

Observership positions are only open to applicants who are Consultants or near Consultants only.

Unfortunately due to high demand, we cannot accommodate observerships at a trainee level. If trainees are keen on gaining experience at the Alfred ICU, they can apply for a registrar position advertised annually in May at careers.alfredhealth.org.au.

ECMO applicants

ECMO applicants must have recently completed or plan to complete the Alfred/VECMOS ECMO Course early in your visit.

Priority will be given to those who work in an established ECMO service or plan to commence an ECMO service that is deemed necessary and appropriate for the local community.

What observers can and can't do

Observers can:

  • attend meetings
  • attend ward rounds/case discussions 
  • review patient records, charts & results on clinical information systems
  • observe procedures or surgery if specifically agreed to by the surgeon performing the operation
  • observers are not permitted to scrub in on procedures or operations. 

Observers cannot undertake any of the following:

  • Direct participation in patient care (history, examination, consultations).
  • Diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
  • Documentation in the medical record.
  • Observers are also not allowed to participate in patient-based research - i.e. can’t collect data, review patient notes etc.

Applying for observership

To apply you must complete the application form and upload the following documents:

  • A letter of objective with intended dates of visit.
  • Your Curriculum Vitae.
  • A letter of support from your Unit Director.

Documents that you must provide if your application is approved:

  • Proof of medical registration (AHPRA or from your home country).
  • Proof of identity (photographic identification e.g. passport page).
  • Police check or statutory declaration.
  • A duly completed Immunisation Questionnaire. This will be sent to you when your application is approved.
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination.