Electives Programme - Mercy Hospital for Women

Medical student electives are welcome at the Mercy Hospital for Women. There is a limited capacity of two elective students at any one time. The Mercy Hospital for Women is one of the largest obstetric hospitals in Victoria, delivering over 5000 women. During the student term, there are approximately 20 medical students (in four ten-week blocks) from the University of Melbourne with whom elective students are encouraged to integrate. Elective students also join in the teaching programme for the local students in obstetrics, gynaecology and neonatal paediatrics.

The elective student programme includes experience in the antenatal clinics, gynaecology clinics, operating theatre, delivery suite and neonatal paediatrics. It is usually possible to participate in some normal vaginal deliveries - during times of low demand by the local medical students. Special interests (e.g. gynaecological oncology may be accommodated).

Please note that if you are accepted for an elective, you will not be an enrolled student of the University and you will therefore not be covered by the University's insurance. You must therefore arrange your own personal accident insurance, health insurance, professional indemnity insurance, and public liability insurance.

International students should contact the nearest Australian Diplomatic Post to confirm details of visa requirements, permissible length of stay etc. Any elective is subject to a visa being granted. Please don't apply for a training visa, a visitor's visa is sufficient.

Accommodation will usually be available for elective students at reasonable rates. An administrative fee of $300 also applies. A bank draft should be made payable to the "Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne" and must be received within six weeks of confirmation of the offer of an elective or the offer will lapse. Please note that we are not able to offer you any remuneration or employment.

Inquiries and applications should be directed to Professor Michael Permezel on m.permezel@unimelb.edu.au