WHAT IS NEUROSURGERY?

What is a Neurosurgeon?

A neurosurgeon, often referred to as a brain surgeon, is specialist surgeon who treats conditions and diseases related to the brain, spine and nervous system.

What training does a neurosurgeon have?

The undergraduate qualification required to be eligible to apply for training in neurosurgery in Australia and New Zealand is a recognised medical degree identified by the Australian Medical Council or the Medical Council of New Zealand. The completion of a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS or MB ChB) is usually a six year undergraduate degree.

The postgraduate qualification required to register and practice as an independent specialist neurosurgeon is the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Neurosurgery. The Surgical Education and Training (SET) Program in Neurosurgery, delivered by Neurosurgical Society of Australasia as an agent of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, is a six year specialist training program.

How do you register as a Neurosurgeon in Australia and New Zealand?

Registration of consultant neurosurgeons is undertaken by the relevant Medical Board in each State and Territory of Australia and the Medical Council of New Zealand in New Zealand. The recognised qualification required for registration as a consultant neurosurgeon in Australia and New Zealand is the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Neurosurgery. International medical graduates are advised to contact the Australian Medical Council or the Medical Council of New Zealand for further information the processes available for assessment of international specialist qualifications. This function is not performed by the Society and the Society is unable to provide advice on these matters. 

Links Click here for the Australian Medical Council Click here for the Medical Council of New Zealand