Ten doctors from a range of countries were all smiles as they learned about the various aspects of being a GP in New Zealand.  All attended the NZLocums Orientation course on August 6-8 in Wellington, which introduces newly arrived overseas GPs to characteristics of New Zealand’s health system including Pharmac, ACC, Medtech 32, Work and Income, as well as topics such as driving and banking in New Zealand, and a cultural overview.

The August course included two GP couples as well as three GPs returning to New Zealand after a three year absence.  Their countries of origin include the USA, Denmark, Australia, the Netherlands, Canada and South Africa. They are working in practices in Dannevirke, Kawau Bay, Whangamata, Te Kauwhata, Roxburgh, Inglewood, Katikati and Darfield.

Pictured from left to right are Dr Richard Neill and Dr Elaine Reed (USA), Dr Christina Petersen (Denmark), Dr Koriki Love (Australia/NZ), Dr Camilla Elliot (UK), Dr Maarten de Krom (the Netherlands), Dr John Kouch (USA), Dr Mariska de Velde Harsenhorst (the Netherlands), Dr Laurens Klopper (Canada/South Africa) and Dr Bonnie Zijsling (the Netherlands).