A Beginner's Guide to Working as a Resident Medical Officer (RMO)

The Resident Medical Officer is the most junior doctor in the medical hierarchy and the first step in the medical career. After leaving medical school, the long hours and stresses of working as a fledgling Resident Medical Officer (RMO) can be as thrilling as it is challenging. The aim of this article is to provide an introduction to the role and equip you with the knowledge to thrive in this integral position, the skill set you will need, and what you can anticipate from your professional journey.



At the heart of hospital operations lies the RMO, a role pivotal to providing continuous care within healthcare facilities. The RMO, as a recent medical graduate, has to quickly transform from being a medical student focused on study and passing examinations to being an integral member of the medical team, responsible for managing acute medical emergencies, often on a 24/7 timeframe. This requires focus, resilience and adaptability.

As the most junior physician in the medical team, the RMO works under the direction of fully trained specialists and other more experienced junior doctors, and assumes gradual responsibility for the performance of carefully delegated tasks, all whilst preparing to train as a specialist in a chosen field. The path to becoming a Resident Medical Officer is a significant milestone in professional development but a long path lies ahead and every RMO should seek out mentorship for reliable guidance and always be ready to learn.

The duties of an RMO include:

• Managing in patients: RMOs are responsible for the day to day management of patients' admitted to hospital wards, working under the guidance of more experienced physicians. This includes admitting acutely unwell patients from the emergency department and patients referred by general practitioners as well as routine admissions for elective procedures.
• Arranging Investigations: RMOs must arrange all appropriate radiological, heamatological and biochemical investigations and ensure that the results are available for the senior physicians' review.
• Collaborating with Medical Teams: Multidisciplinary teamwork is key. The RMO works alongside consultants, other junior doctors, nurses and  and other healthcare professionals to ensure top-tier patient care. Clear and concise communication is crucial for effective team work.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Meticulous documentation of patient progress and treatments is a crucial part of the RMO role.
• Out patient Management: RMOs may be required to work in out patient clinics conducting patient consultations, usually under the supervision of senior doctors.
• On Call Duties: the on call rota is an integral part of the job and out of hours work is often busy and demanding with reduced support from senior doctors who may be on call from home.

The Skills That Set You Apart

To excel as an RMO, certain skills are essential.

• Clinical Competence: A solid foundation of medical knowledge and clinical skills is essential to safe and effective patient management with the determination to continually learn and improve.
• Clear Communication: Exceptional clear and concise communication is essential, both with patients and within the medical team.
• Adaptability: The ability to respond effectively to the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of healthcare settings.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in monitoring and documenting patient information is vital.
• Stress Management: Managing stress effectively is critical to maintaining personal wellbeing and providing the highest standard of patient care.

What To Expect From the Job

As an RMO, no two days are the same. Expect a demanding role fraught with novel experiences including diverse medical cases which do not always conform to textbook presentations, acute emergencies and opportunities to further your experience. This position will demand resilience but will reward you with professional growth and the gratification of competent patient care. Be prepared for:

• Shift Work: Hospitals operate round-the-clock, and your work schedule will reflect this.
• Continuous Learning: The medical field is ever-evolving; embrace the journey of lifelong learning.
• Professional Development: Use this role as a stepping stone to advance in your medical career.

Towards Becoming a RMO - Useful Resources

While you continue your job search, Odyssey Recruitment provides useful resources to keep your career moving in the right direction. Begin the application process now, and then learn more about how we can help you.

• Medical Job Search Tips: Use the content here to learn everything you need to know about optimal searches for medical jobs in different geographical locations and the physician recruitment processes.
• Medical Jobs by Specialty: Explore medical jobs around the world and learn about the various options and remuneration packages
• Resident Doctor's Tool Kit: a resource for resident medical officers starting careers, training and looking for jobs
• The Value of Mentorship for RMOs: How to Find a Mentor and Why It Matters
• Understanding the Role of a Resident Medical Officer in Relief in New Zealand
• Tips for applying for RMO house officer and registrar jobs in New Zealand
• Understanding the role of the Relief Junior Doctor in New Zealand
• The 4 Stages of Medical Education in Australia and New Zealand