An Endocrinology trainee can expect to have specialised training in the physiology and pathophysiology of hormones and hormone-producing tissues. The training combines practical learning and assessment tools to prepare you for independent practice.

Endocrinologists are responsible for identifying and treating problems of the endocrine system. The endocrine system includes several glands such as the pancreas, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, parathyroid, ovaries, and testes. These glands are responsible for creating hormones and releasing them into the bloodstream.

Hormonal disorders cause a range of conditions. Hormonal disorders can include (but are not limited to) menopause, diabetes, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, infertility, cancers of the endocrine glands and thyroid issues. Over 50 different hormones are running through the human body, which are involved in mood regulation, respiration, sensory perception, growth, reproduction, and metabolism. Therefore, an Endocrinologist is specially trained to help diagnose, treat, and manage hormonal illnesses. 

An Endocrinologist must be highly competent at performing tests, analysing the results, and diagnosing and treating diseases. In addition to the technical skills required, Endocrinologists should possess the following skills and attributes: 

• Communication
• Problem-solving 
• Attention to detail
• Leadership 
• Empathy

Endocrinologists must work with and instruct other health professionals whilst communicating results, concerns and treatment options with patients and their families. As a result, strong written and verbal communication skills are highly regarded traits in this field. Often a patient may require ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments as a result of a diagnoses, therefore the ability to communicate with empathy is also crucial.

Although you can break up your training, it is not advised. Pausing the training for one year or longer will mean re-sitting some assessments. Meanwhile, taking a break for longer than two years may mean some examinations and course materials will need to be re-completed or re- examined. Therefore, most trainees complete the Endocrinology training in one block. 

The number of trainees selected per year varies. In 2021, 6 applicants were chosen to enter their first year of training in Queensland from 17 eligible applicants. Across Australia, there were 143 trainees in 2019, with 51 of those new to the trainee program. In total, there were 665 specialists in Australia in 2019. 

There are countless reasons why North Queensland is one of the best places on the planet to work, live, and study. No matter what stage or age you are in, Northern Queensland offers a great balance between work and leisure. 

Residents here find the North Queensland lifestyle relaxed and laid-back. The people are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and hiking, and when the sun goes down, there are also many bars, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy. 

North Queensland has the convenience of cities close by, all of which have reasonable housing costs and expansive landscapes to explore nearby. The region combines quality education and the chance to pursue a relaxed or adventurous lifestyle, depending on your preference. The area has a warm climate all year round, beautiful beaches and rainforests, and is home to a diverse range of cultures and lifestyles, making Northern Queensland hard to beat. 

Each regional centre in North Queensland is small enough to escape the crowded nature of big city living, but they still have enough going on for you to socialise and entertain yourself. And with short commute times putting more hours back into your workday, you’ll have plenty of time to explore when offered the chance. 

Networking and industry social opportunities frequently happen due to the tight-knit and collaborative nature of the health and hospital communities here. The vision to improve the health of the communities throughout the region, unites the students, interns, junior doctors, and specialists training and working here. Together we hope to address the shortage of doctors in North Queensland. 

Our training region ensures trainees have access to a wide range of hospital and health settings of varying sizes and capabilities offering a diverse case load and case mix. These training areas include the following health service areas: Cairns, Central West, Mackay, North West, Torres and Cape, and Townsville.

References 

• https://www.racp.edu.au/trainees/advanced-training/advanced-training-programs/endocrinology
• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/Endocrinologist-services
• https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/endocrinologist
• https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-an-endocrinologis
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248679#what_is_the_endocrine_system
• https://www.zippia.com/endocrinologist-jobs/skills/