Older Physicians

[JoeNamaMD]

I recently stumbled upon an article which discussed age discrimination in Australia. It stated that many people over the age of 40 have a very difficult time find employment. I know if I go to professional(either Dentistry or Medicine) school in Australia I will be in my mid 30's and approaching that dreaded age. Will my age be an issue when seeking employment after finishing school? I know in the States that there are many older medical students and most Americans actually feel more comfortable around older doctors. Is age discrimination a major issue in Australia for physicians and dentists?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[redshifteffect]

Originally posted by JoeNamaMD
I recently stumbled upon an article which discussed age discrimination in Australia. It stated that many people over the age of 40 have a very difficult time find employment. I know if I go to professional(either Dentistry or Medicine) school in Australia I will be in my mid 30's and approaching that dreaded age. Will my age be an issue when seeking employment after finishing school? I know in the States that there are many older medical students and most Americans actually feel more comfortable around older doctors. Is age discrimination a major issue in Australia for physicians and dentists?

First of all, getting a permenant residency after the age of 45 will be impossible, unless you find a job in a really really rural area that is willing to sponsor you. If anything that will be your main hinderance to practicing here.

 

[Purifyer]

Considering that it's illegal to discriminate on the basis of age (in relation to employment) and considering that a registrar position is essentially a job... I don't think any healthcare institution would be stupid enough not to employ a well-qualified older candidate unless there was a very good reason.

Besides... I thought 'non-traditional' applicants were all the Politically Correct vogue down under at the moment.