Preparing evidence based future medical leaders: an Australasian perspective

There is growing interest across the globe in how best to prepare future medical managers and leaders. Arguably such training needs to be embedded in all specialist medical curricula, as is the vision in the United Kingdom. One model is that offered by the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The Australasian model entails a recognised postgraduate specialist training program leading to specialism and a formal career path for qualified doctors in the discipline referred to as ‘Medical Administration’. A particular challenge currently facing RACMA is how best to embed the development of research skills into its specialist training program. This paper explores how doctors are being prepared for their evolving roles and responsibilities in management and leadership in Australasia, including their important role as health services researchers.