6th July 12
What is the Federation of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Societies Ltd (FCMA) doing for its members?
While there are some aspects of the National Law that we do not agree with, our priority right now is helping members get registered.
I have received a request for further information or documents but I cannot produce them in the time required – what should I do?
AHPRA is setting short time-frames in an effort to get you registered on time. Try to do things quickly. If you cannot meet the deadline AHPRA has given you to provide additional information but your application is otherwise complete, you will receive limited registration on 1 July until your documents can be assessed. This will mean that you may continue to practise.
Why did my friend get approved but I - who studied at the same school - am asked for further information?
Sometimes courses change over time. Sometimes the documentation submitted by applicants is different. It is important to submit the information being requested, as soon as possible to ensure your application is assessed quickly.
Why are people being asked for different information if they studied overseas, compared with those who studied in Australia?
The evidence requirements vary depending on whether a course is already on the list of adequate courses. Apart from this, however, it is the same for all applicants. It makes no difference if you studied overseas or in Australia. AHPRA still needs the same information.
I have practised Chinese medicine for years and my English-speaking clients have been happy with me but I do not have International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test results. Why will my registration have conditions on it?
The English language standard states that those who cannot demonstrate that they meet its requirements may have conditions placed on their registration as outlined in the standard. Being able to communicate effectively with patients and other health practitioners is an important part of good Chinese medicine practice.
The condition requires that, if in your professional judgement, you and your patient do not share a common language, a suitable interpreter must be used. The definition of a suitable interpreter is an adult who:
• has experience in health interpreting
• is agreed to by both the patient and the practitioner
• is considered by both the patient and the practitioner to be competent in communicating in their respective languages, and
• agrees not to compromise privacy and confidentiality.
Can I apply for the removal of the condition on my registration?
Yes. You may apply any time for a condition to be removed if there has been a material change in circumstances, for example, you have a new English language test result demonstrating that you now meet the English language standard.
Do I meet the English Language Standard if I have taught in English for five years?
Yes. Teaching for five years full-time equivalent in secondary or tertiary programs with English as the language of instruction in any of the following countries is accepted as evidence of meeting the standard:
• Australia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
Do I need to register as a Chinese herbal dispenser?
If you are registered as a Chinese herbal medicine practitioner, you can dispense Chinese herbal medicines to your own patients. You are not required to be registered as a Chinese herbal dispenser to continue doing this.
If you want to offer a dispensing service to people who are not your patients (the general public) you will need to apply for registration in Chinese herbal dispensing. You may be required to provide AHPRA with different evidence for Chinese herbal medicine dispensing.