The RVTS program is specially designed to accommodate the particular circumstances of remote practice and to offer the best possible educational experience within the practical constraints this presents. It is characterised by its remote supervision model, use of innovative information and telecommunication technologies, individualised learning programs, population health focus and community involvement.
The RVTS program also enables registrars to achieve competence in the advanced skills necessary for FACRRM. The RACGP recognises additional training in advanced general practice through it's post-vocational Fellowship in Advanced Rural General Practice (FARGP). The RVTS enables registrars to train toward FARGP.
Program delivery is flexible to meet the specific and individual needs of program participants. The key features of the structured teaching and learning activities provided are:
- Weekly Teletutorials: Registrars undertake structured 90 minute teaching sessions, held each week via teleconference, facilitated by an RVTS medical educator with assistance of guest experts.
- Education Workshops: Twice each year, program participants will meet for an intensive five day education workshop. Workshops cover a range of areas including: procedural skill development, fellowship examination preparation, emergency medicine, information technology affecting remote medicine and specific topics best learnt in a face to face environment.
- Clinical teaching visits: An RVTS supervisor, medical educator or experienced rural practitioner sits in on registrar consultations, usually over a day, to provide on-site feedback.