When International Medical Graduates (IMGs) consider studying or practicing outside of their home country, the first question that comes to their mind is which country would be the best fit for them. Although there are many options, the United States and Australia are prominent destinations for IMGs for obvious reasons, and we’ll shortly talk about those reasons.
Medical students and graduates are becoming more and more acquainted with terms like the USMLE (United States Medical Licencing Exam), AMC (Australian Medical Council), PLAB, and many more. All thanks to the Internet! 🙂
The ultimate decision to choose a country for the future is influenced by a variety of factors: career opportunities, earning potential, lifestyle and work environment, family and friends, eligibility standards, licensing examinations and pass rates in them, the desired field of specialization, costs of moving and living abroad, religion, culture, and personal preferences.
In this blog, I will be talking about the USA and Australia and which one is better for Indian medical graduates to migrate to to build a global career! I will present to you a breakdown of the process and exams required to practice in two countries: the USMLE for the USA and the AMC for Australia.
Career opportunities and earning potential
Career opportunities and earning potential both in Australia and the US are promising for medical professionals.
Australia offers career opportunities in various specialties, including general practice, surgery, and more. Earning potential is competitive, with Australian general doctors often earning a substantially high income, especially if you are a specialist. The exact earnings depend on factors such as experience, specialization, and job location.
The US opens doors to a wide range of medical careers, from clinical practice to research and teaching. Earning potential in the U.S. healthcare system is substantial, with doctors in various specialties earning well above the national average income. Specialization, job location, and experience significantly impact earning potential.
Here is a table of average annual salaries for doctors in Australia and the USA based on different specializations:
| Medical Specialization | Australia Average Salary (USD) | USA Average Salary (USD) | Australia Average Salary (INR) | USA Average Salary (INR) |
| General Practitioner | $120,000 – $250,000 | $200,000 – $250,000 | ₹9,000,000 – ₹18,750,000 | ₹15,000,000 – ₹18,750,000 |
| Surgeon (General) | $200,000 – $600,000 | $250,000 – $400,000 | ₹15,000,000 – ₹45,000,000 | ₹18,750,000 – ₹30,000,000 |
| Cardiologist | $250,000 – $600,000 | $400,000 – $550,000 | ₹18,750,000 – ₹45,000,000 | ₹30,000,000 – ₹41,250,000 |
| Dermatologist | $200,000 – $450,000 | $350,000 – $450,000 | ₹15,000,000 – ₹33,750,000 | ₹26,250,000 – ₹33,750,000 |
| Psychiatrist | $150,000 – $300,000 | $200,000 – $250,000 | ₹11,250,000 – ₹22,500,000 | ₹15,000,000 – ₹18,750,000 |
Immigration process:
The immigration process for international medical graduates in Australia and the USA is totally different. The immigration process for these two countries may also vary depending on factors such as the country you are applying from,your highest education label,work experience, the college you attended,etc.
Australia: International medical graduates looking to practice in Australia can explore visa options such as Subclass 482 and Subclass 186. These visas provide pathways to work in Australia. You can also explore permanent residency (PR) through programs like General Skilled Migration.
The Australian visa processing time for Indians varies depending on the type of visa. However, here are some processing times based on the visa:
- Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): 18 Days
- Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500): 59 Days
- Australian Work Visa (Subclass 482): 30 Days–49 Months
USA: International medical graduates often start with J-1 or H-1B visas for training. They can then proceed with residency and further training. The path to Green Card (permanent residency) can be complex, with options like the National Interest Waiver and employment-based sponsorships.
Here are some approximate processing time ranges for commonly applied-for visas in the USA:
1. Visitor Visas (B-1/B-2): Typically processed within a few weeks to a few months.
2. Student Visas (F-1/M-1): Processing can take several weeks to a few months. It’s essential to apply well in advance of your intended start date.
3. Work Visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1): These visas can take several months to process, and it may vary based on demand and the specific visa category.
Please note that these are rough estimates, and processing times are subject to change. It’s essential to check the official Department of State websites of both countries for the most current processing time information. Additionally, it’s advisable to apply for visas well in advance of your intended travel or employment start date to account for potential delays.
Lifestyle and work environment:
International medical graduates seeking to practice in Australia and the USA can enjoy a high-quality lifestyle and excellent work environments. These countries offer a favorable work-life balance, advanced healthcare facilities, and a diverse, multicultural society.
In Australia, you can experience a relaxed lifestyle with opportunities for outdoor activities, beautiful landscapes, and a strong healthcare system. Work conditions are generally conducive to a balanced life.The average work hours for a doctor in Australia are 42 per week.
In the USA, medical professionals benefit from cutting-edge technology, a dynamic healthcare sector, and the potential for high earning potential. The work environment is a bit challenging but rewarding, with numerous opportunities for career growth.The average work hours for a doctor in the US can go up to 48 hours per week.
Family and friends
As we know, for Indian medical professionals pursuing their careers somewhere abroad, family and friends play a vital role in providing support and comfort. The Indian diaspora in these countries is extensive, offering a close-knit community that eases the transition for newcomers and helps maintain cultural connections.
In Australia, Indian expatriates have established vibrant communities in major cities like Sydney and Queensland, creating a sense of belonging for newcomers. This support network fosters a sense of home away from home.Roughly 21% of doctors working in Australia are from India.
Similarly, the USA hosts a diverse and growing Indian diaspora, particularly in places like New Jersey, California, and Texas. This community offers social, cultural, and professional connections for Indian medical graduates.Around 8.5% of the total number of doctors in the USA are of Indian origin.
Navigating the challenges of a new country becomes more manageable with the strong bonds and networks provided by one’s own community, ensuring a smoother transition and enriching the overall experience for those who are going to practice medicine in Australia and the USA.
Licensing exams and pass rates:
International medical graduates aiming to practice in Australia and the USA must navigate rigorous licensing exams.
In Australia, the AMC (Australian Medical Council) exams, including the AMC MCQ and AMC Clinical, are the key assessments. Pass rates vary but tend to be competitive, requiring thorough preparation and dedication. For AMC MCQ, there is a pass rate of about 58%. The AMC clinical pass rate is less than 28%. So we would say that the first part of the AMC exam is not so hard, and the second part is comparably a bit hard.
In the USA, international medical graduates face the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). Pass rates can also vary, with success hinged on rigorous test prep and determination. Scoring well is vital for securing residency positions and advancing in the medical field. The overall pass rate of the USMLE complete exam is around 33%, which is somewhat low considering the cost of appearing for the exam.
Moving and living costs
Moving to a new country as an international medical graduate comes with varying costs. In Australia, expenses can include visa fees, accommodation, transportation, and daily living. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher living costs than smaller towns.
Similarly, in the USA, international medical graduates should budget for visa fees, housing, healthcare, and day-to-day expenses. Costs can vary widely depending on the location, with major cities like New York and San Francisco being more expensive than smaller cities or rural areas.
It’s important for aspiring medical professionals to research and plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth transition and comfortable living in their new destination.
Culture and religion
International medical graduates moving to Australia and the USA can expect diverse and inclusive cultures. Both countries are renowned for their multiculturalism and openness to various cultures, including Indians.
Australia embraces a ‘mateship’ culture with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Australians respect and celebrate cultural diversity, making it easy for international medical graduates to integrate into society.Australia is a really joyful and chill country with a happiness index of 7.24.
In the USA, the melting pot’ concept is evident, where people from various backgrounds coexist. Indian culture and traditions are widely respected, and the country’s religious freedom allows individuals to practice their faith freely. The happiness index of the USA is 6.89, which signifies the overall happiness and thereby the feasibility of other cultures getting around peacefully.
Personal preference:
Besides all the factors discussed above, one of the main factors that plays a role in determining which country to choose is one’s personal preference.
This can significantly vary from person to person. Some people would prefer Australia for their career, while others could prefer the USA. This factor cannot, therefore, be quantified.
Conclusion
Thus, the choice between the USA and Australia as the preferred destinations for Indian doctors depends on a multitude of factors. Both countries offer enticing opportunities, but key considerations include career prospects, earning potential,etc.
The decision-making process should also factor in individual preferences, as what works for one person may not suit another.
Ultimately, the decision should be well-researched and aligned with personal goals and circumstances to ensure a satisfying and fulfilling professional journey.
If you are also a doctor or a medical graduate who is interested in moving to Australia and building a great career there,please fill out this form, and we will help you get there and build a career in Australia.
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