Senior Medical Officers (SMO)

Why This Role Matters
Senior Medical Officers (SMO) in General Medicine are essential in regional hospitals, providing specialist oversight, inpatient management, and leadership in multidisciplinary care. In rural South Australia, this role supports continuity of care, acute medical services, and strengthens healthcare access for regional communities.

Job Description
Riverland Hospital in Berri, South Australia is seeking a General Medicine SMO for locum coverage from 02 March to 06 March 2026. The role involves delivering senior-level inpatient medical services within a regional hospital setting, ensuring safe clinical practice and high standards of patient care.

Key Features of the Role:
• Location: Berri, South Australia
• Facility: Riverland Hospital
• Dates: 02/03/2026 – 06/03/2026
• Employment Type: Locum
• Senior Medical Officer level
• Regional hospital setting

Responsibilities
• Provide senior oversight for General Medicine inpatients
• Conduct ward rounds and clinical reviews
• Supervise junior medical staff where applicable
• Manage acute and chronic medical cases
• Participate in multidisciplinary care coordination
• Ensure accurate and compliant clinical documentation
• Maintain patient safety and clinical governance standards

Required Qualifications
• Current AHPRA Registration
• Fellowship qualification (if applicable)
• Valid Medicare Provider Number
• Professional Indemnity Insurance

Educational Requirements:
• Primary Medical Degree (MBBS or equivalent)
• Fellowship and CPD Certification (if applicable to SMO level)

Experience and Skills:
• Senior-level General Medicine experience
• Ability to work independently in regional hospital settings
• Strong clinical decision-making skills
• Experience supervising junior staff
• Familiarity with EMR systems

Mandatory Credentials & Compliance:
• SA Hospital paperwork completion
• On-site EMR training
• Immunisations and vaccination records
• ID verification
• Criminal Record Check (CRC)
• SA Working With Children Check (WWCC)
• References

Age Eligibility:
As per AHPRA and SA Health requirements

Salary Insights
Rate not specified. SMO locum rates typically align with senior specialist market rates in South Australia.

Location Overview
Berri is located in South Australia’s Riverland region along the Murray River, offering a relaxed rural lifestyle with scenic river views, wineries, and outdoor activities. Regional placements provide both professional growth and lifestyle balance.

FAQs

What level is required for this role?
Senior Medical Officer (SMO) in General Medicine.

Is AHPRA registration mandatory?
Yes, current AHPRA registration is required.

Are compliance documents necessary before commencement?
Yes, including SA Health paperwork, CRC, WWCC, immunisations, and EMR training.

Is this a long-term placement?
No, this is a short-term locum from 02–06 March 2026.

Is Fellowship required?
Fellowship documentation is required if applicable to your SMO level.

Application Tips
• Ensure all SA Health credentialing documents are ready
• Confirm Medicare Provider Number validity
• Highlight recent General Medicine locum experience
• Provide up-to-date CPD certification
• Submit references promptly to avoid onboarding delays