The Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria has responsibility for medical education and training of interns and junior doctors before they enter a vocational (specialist) pathway.

One of its major activities is the administration of the annual Computer Matching Service, which places interns, postgraduate year 2 doctors, basic physician trainees, graduate nurses and medical radiation graduates.

With funding from the Department of Human Services, the Computer Matching Service is a web-based platform used by both candidates and hospitals to submit ranked preferences. The Council expects about 3700 applications this year using the dedicated computer matching website: http://computermatching.pmcv.com.au.

Ms Aileen Falzon, website administrator, says a range of information can be found on the site, including general information about the computer matching process and matching algorithm, a hospital information directory, instructions on how to register and use the matching service and information about the online referee and online CV process (for Basic Physician Training (BPT2 and BPT3 matches only).

It's also involved in the accreditation of junior medical posts. Executive Officer Carol Jordon says that standards for intern and postgraduate year 2 posts, ensure that there are appropriate learning and educational opportunities for junior doctors in all rotations. Rotations are accredited by a team of trained surveyors. Penelope Watson, accreditation manager, says that in response to the planned expansion in medical graduates in Victoria by 2012, new rotations for interns in psychiatry, orthopaedics, anaesthetics and general practice have recently been introduced.

 Engagement of junior medical staff is a key Council objective. Dr Ian Graham, medical director, says this is achieved in a number of ways. Junior medical officers (JMOs) are trained as members of the survey teams which accredit rotations in hospitals. They are also represented on Council committees and have made significant contributions to Council discussions on implementation of the Australian Curriculum Framework; expansion of medical workforce and its impact on training; as well as feedback, assessment and measures to improve JMO welfare.

The Council supports meetings of the Victorian JMO Forum. JMO contribution is recognised by the annual Victorian JMO Award. Dr Angela Marsiglio, convenor of the forum in 2009, wants to hear from staff about issues which are important to them (email: jmoforum@pmcv.com.au).

The Council supports a range of activities relating to international medical graduates and is conducting several information sessions to help them gain employment in Victorian hospitals. Marilyn Bullen, education manager, says with DHS funding, a range of educational activities are offered, which support the professional development of registrars, junior medical staff, medical education officers and medical clinical educators.

More details: www.pmcv.com.au or 03 94191217.