Primary Source Verification (PSV) is a crucial step in the assessment process for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking medical registration in Australia through the Australian Medical Council (AMC). PSV involves verifying the credentials or awards achieved by a candidate directly from the source, typically the training institution that issued the credential or qualification.
Importance of PSV
PSV is mandatory under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law for all IMGs seeking medical registration in Australia. The Australian Medical Council (AMC) collaborates with the Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) for the PSV process.
ECFMG’s Role in PSV
ECFMG plays a significant role in the PSV process through its MyIntealth platform. MyIntealth serves as an online environment for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to access services related to the verification of medical credentials. ECFMG employs a rigorous PSV process to verify the medical education and registration credentials of graduates who completed their medical education outside Australia.
PSV Process Flowchart
To understand the PSV process, IMGs can refer to the ECFMG primary source verification process flowchart provided by ECFMG. This flowchart outlines the steps involved in verifying medical credentials and the subsequent upload of verification outcomes to the AMC candidate accounts.
Collaboration Between ECFMG and AMC
While ECFMG handles the PSV process, it’s essential to note that the collaboration between ECFMG and AMC does not alter the AMC’s application and verification procedures. IMGs should continue to follow established guidelines and requirements when establishing an AMC portfolio and progressing with the assessment processes.
Credential Categories Accepted by AMC
The AMC accepts three credential categories from ECFMG for verification of a medical degree (final medical diploma/primary qualification):
- Final Medical Diploma
- Final Medical Transcript
- Alternate Graduation Document
Adding Qualifications to AMC Portfolio
It’s crucial to note that certain document types are not eligible to be added to an AMC candidate account. Adding non-eligible documents, such as medical registrations, PhDs, research, internship documents, partially completed qualifications, scientific degrees, short courses, or Australian/Australasian qualifications, will not be accepted.
Applying for PSV
To initiate the PSV process and become eligible for AMC assessments, IMGs are required to submit their medical degree (final medical diploma/primary qualification) in clinical medicine and surgery for verification through ECFMG. This verification confirms the completion of examination and training requirements and the awarding of the medical degree.
Specific Requirements for Different Pathways
Depending on the chosen pathway (Standard Pathway, Competent Authority Pathway, Specialist Pathway, or Short-Term Training in a Medical Specialty Pathway), specific credentials, including postgraduate and specialist qualifications, may need verification. IMGs are encouraged to seek advice from the relevant Australian/Australasian specialist medical college for pathway-specific requirements.
Fee Structure for PSV
The PSV process incurs fees based on the type of application, whether it’s for establishing an AMC portfolio, adding additional qualifications, or specific examination-related fees. IMGs should be aware of the refund structure in case an application is canceled or deemed unnecessary at various stages of the process.
Validity of Qualifications
All qualifications previously submitted to the AMC for verification through processes like EICS and EPIC remain valid. Verification status(es) will appear in the AMC candidate account, facilitating the progress of the assessment process.
For detailed information on the PSV process and application procedures, IMGs are advised to consult the AMC Candidate Account Guide and the FAQs section for additional clarity.
