The revised Area of Need (AoN) assessment process was implemented on 1 April 2007 and incorporates the assessment of the applicant’s clinical competencies in addition to an interview component, where applicants are interviewed by two Fellows of the RANZCR. Since 2011, this process also includes assessment for specialist recognition. Supervision guidelines have been established after consultation with supervisors of AoN appointees and heads of department.
The RANZCR currently has three different pathways to specialist recognition:
Examination Pathway (partially comparable): The individual is assessed on their comparability to an Australian or New Zealand trained specialist, based on their training and subsequent clinical experience. If found to be partially comparable, candidates are eligible to sit the FRANZCR Part 2/Phase 2 examinations. They are eligible to apply for fellowship of the RANZCR after successful completion of the Part 2/Phase 2 examinations;
Peer Review Pathway (substantially comparable): The individual applies for specialist recognition and is assessed as per the College process for the examination pathway; however, the applicant must satisfy set criteria to be found substantially comparable. The peer review period of up to 12 months is to be undertaken in an accredited department; upon satisfactory completion of peer assessment in the workplace and multi-source feedback exercise, the applicant is eligible to apply for fellowship of the RANZCR;
International Recognition: The individual applies for admission to fellowship of the RANZCR on the basis of international recognition; being of an extremely high calibre, having an extensive record of publications, presentations, recipient of academic awards and holding a high-level academic appointment. They are interviewed by the Chief Censor and a councillor and, if successful, are granted specialist recognition. Admission to fellowship under this provision is recommended only upon taking up
a position in Australia or New Zealand.
