Medical Oncology

Medical oncologists investigate, study, diagnose, treat and manage benign and malignant growth, tumours, cancers and diseases.

I enjoy the combination of a specialty where there is significant patient engagement over time, as well as the continuous exposure to new treatments and clinical trials.

I appreciate the opportunity to engage with patients about their treatment choices and supporting them through their cancer journey as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Assoc Prof Melissa Eastgate
Medical Oncologist

Clinical Practice

Medical oncologists work within both public and private facilities to provide holistic, multimodal care to patients with cancer. Medical Oncologists treat their patients through preventative and palliative medicine, using treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, molecular targeted agents and analgesics.

Statistics and information - Medical Oncology

Number of specialists - QLD

Number of new fellows - QLD

Number of specialists - AUS

Number of new fellows - AUS

Average weekly hours
QLD

Average Age
QLD

% Aged 60+
QLD

19% of the QLD 2017 workforce intend to retire by 2027

Proportion Female/Male - QLD

Male
Female

Location - QLD

Regional
Major cities

Public/Private QLD

Private
Public

Number of trainees - QLD

Number of new trainees - QLD

Number of trainees - AUS

Number of new trainees - AUS

PGY new trainees - QLD

Proportion Female/Male - QLD

Male
Female

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:

  • College
  • Queensland Health pathway/network (centrally coordinated)
  • Queensland Health facility (accredited for training)

Training and assessment summary

For detailed information in relation to training and assessment requirements, please contact RACP.

Training program overview

Medical oncology advanced training may be undertaken following completion of requirements for basic training with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). The medical oncology training program incorporates work-based learning and assessment, with successful trainees attaining the qualification of FRACP with accreditation to practise as a Medical Oncologist in Australia or New Zealand.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold current medical registration, have completed RACP basic training requirements and have secured appointment to an appropriate advanced training position.

Flexibility

Minimum 40% of full-time commitment. Training must be completed within 8 years.

Interrupted training

Allowed. Interruptions of more than 12 continuous months may require additional assessments (determined on a case-by-case basis). Interruptions of more than 24 continuous months may require additional training time and/or assessments (determined on a case-by-case basis).

Data Sources