Frequently asked questions about core medical training
THE BASICS
Please go through this website:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk
It has each and every detail and is self explanatory
What is core medical training (CMT)?
In the UK, doctors pass through a series of training programs to become a consultant in medicine:
What is ARCP?
This is an assessment done by your program director every May of your training. (S)he goes through your portfolio in March and advises you what to do in order to pass your ARCP.
Then you are called in May and a panel of consultants goes through your portfolio and give you a final assessment mark. This has been explained in detail here:
https://www.jrcptb.org.uk/training-certification/arcp-decision-aids
What happens if you fail your ARCP?
Your program director keeps requesting you to do whatever was missing and you have more than the meetings with your supervisors to ensure that you have sorted out the issues raised in your ARCP.
Do I need appraisals in my CMT?
The ARCP essentially is your appraisal so you do not need any appraisals in CMT.
PREPARING FOR CMT
I am planning to do CMT. What sort of job should I go for as my first job in the NHS?
A general medicine job with on calls and rotations as mentioned here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
Should I go for an A&E/ ortho job as my first job in the NHS if I am planning to do CMT?
There is no point of working in A&E as that is a different specialty. You will be able to pass your exams quicker and will learn more in general medicine if you want to do CMT.
ST3
I have heard that by doing CMT, I will be eligible to apply for round 1 in ST3?
That is correct. The sponsor for your TIER 2 work visa is Health Education England and the sponsor will remain the same for ST3 - therefore you just need to apply for a new visa when you get a ST3 post once the trust who has employed you as a ST3 trainee gives you your COS.
CONSIDERING AN ALTERNATE SPECIALTY AFTER CMT
I want to do general surgery. I cannot get a training post in general surgery unless I do a training post prior to applying. Should I do CMT and then apply for surgery ST3?
Please read this post:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/my-guideline-for-surgical-training-in-uk.html
What is the harm of applying for CMT in order to do ST3 in surgery?
It does not make sense to spend 2 years in a specialty and then apply for a training registrar post in a different specialty because :
1. If you plan to do ST3 surgery, then you will not be able to work on your CMT e-portfolio and are at risk of failing your ARCP.
2. You will not be able to focus on your surgery post graduate exams as you would be in CMT.
3. When you apply for surgery ST3, your colleagues would be given preference as they would have gone through core surgical training and would have more experience in surgery in the NHS than you.
4. Your interviewers during the surgery ST3 interview will notice that you are not committed to your specialty therefore you may not get the post.
So it is advisable not to apply for any other specialty after CMT?
Yes that is true- unless you have a very strong reason to do so. Some people may want to do ST3 in ED or may want to switch to GP training but they need a very good reason to do so.
Remember - you have spent your deanery's money on your core medical training so you will not give a very good impression to everyone else.
Please go through this website:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk
It has each and every detail and is self explanatory
What is core medical training (CMT)?
In the UK, doctors pass through a series of training programs to become a consultant in medicine:
1. Foundation year training (FY1 and FY2)- a 2 year programme
2. Core training (CT1 and 2 and in come cases CT3)- a 2 to 3 years programme
3. Specialty training (starting from ST3 and going to ST7) - 5 year programme
Can an international medical graduate get into CMT?
Yes, as CMT has round 1 and round 2, a international medical graduate (IMG) who is not a UK resident can apply for round 2.
The rounds are explained in detail here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/my-guideline-on-deciding-which.html
TIMELINE
When should an IMG apply for CMT?
This depends on a lot of things - personally I worked in a non training post for around 18 months before I applied for core medical training. I did my ALS, gave my MRCP 2, did an audit and on calls during that time so I was fully immersed in the NHS and knew how to work as a junior doctor just like my trainee colleagues.
When I started my core medical training, I felt more at ease as I had done everything before.
So it all depends on your personality and your situation.
What do mean by my situation?
Are you the sort of person who like to do everything properly and would get anxious if you are not aware of how on calls work? - In that case it is best to take your time and get used to the NHS before you apply for core medical training - This can take 6 months to a year.
What about MRCP?
I would advise that you try to clear MRCP 1 and if possible, part 2 during your non training post before you apply for CMT so that you have only PACES to give during your CMT.
What if I am unable to give MRCP 1 and 2?
That is not a problem - I know a lot of people who gave MRCP 1, 2 and PACES in their 2 years of core medical training, maintained their portfolios and managed to get into their desired posts in ST3. It is difficult and you may not enjoy it as much but it is still possible.
So as an IMG, can I apply for core medical training directly?
It is up to you - I know a few IMGs who applied for core medical training as soon as they started work in the NHS and managed to get a job.
What are the PROS and CONS of doing this?
I have mentioned this here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html#!/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
EXPERIENCE
What is CMT like?
If you have worked as a non training SHO doctor, it will be the same but with extra support. You will have dedicated teaching days, regular meetings with your supervisors and have extra support like:
- Study budget
- The rota coordinator will be responsible to get another doctor to work in your place when you have a mandatory teaching day ( This does not apply to on calls - just regular 9 to 5 ward duty days).
- An e- portfolio
- For IMGs, the most important point is being able to apply for ST3 posts
- Free attendance at one PACES course arranged by your deanery.
E-PORTFOLIO IN CMT
What is an e-portfolio?
I have explained it here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/03/maintaining-your-e-portfolio.html
How is the e -portfolio in CMT different than the e-portfolio we get in our non training posts?
We have to achieve a certain number of assessments, do certain procedures and be signed off to do them independently and attend a certain number of clinics.
How does that help us?
The curriculum set in the NHS e portfolio is the syllabus of PACES - so it actually helps you prepare for it by just doing regular clinics, doing examination assessments, case based discussions, etc.
Which is why I advise that you should only have cleared MRCP 1 and 2 before you start your core medical training so that you can focus on your portfolio and thus you will be default be preparing for your PACES as well.
3. Specialty training (starting from ST3 and going to ST7) - 5 year programme
Can an international medical graduate get into CMT?
Yes, as CMT has round 1 and round 2, a international medical graduate (IMG) who is not a UK resident can apply for round 2.
The rounds are explained in detail here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/my-guideline-on-deciding-which.html
Is there a guideline for CMT?
This is the official website. Everything will be mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk
CMT application process for IMGs- A general guideline:
This is the official website. Everything will be mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk
CMT application process for IMGs- A general guideline:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/cmt-application-process-for-imgs.html
My experience of applying for CMT
My experience of applying for CMT
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/my-experience-of-applying-for-ct1.html
Your blogs state something which is no longer mentioned in the CT1 application requirement.
Yes, this is because I applied in 2017 and the criteria change annually. Overall, it is more the less the same.
However you must go through the latest guidelines mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/
Is there a minimum and maximum experience requirement?
As you can see, everything is mentioned on the official website:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/am-i-eligible/experience
Will this mean that I will have one year more than others before I apply for a consultant?
If you work in core medical training for 3 years then your ST training will start from ST4. So you will go through this: CT1, 2 and 3. then ST4 to ST7- then consultant.
Does it make a difference?
Personally I would prefer the 2 year training structure of core medical training as I would get too bored in a 3 year program.
APPLYING FOR CMT
What is the process of applying for CMT?
1. Check what documents you need as mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/
2. Check the dates of applying for round 2 and make an application on oriel:
https://www.oriel.nhs.uk/Web/Account/LandingPage
Remember not to submit your application till a few days before the application process closes as you may want to add more things to it while working in the NHS to make your CV stronger.
3. Get your foundation competencies signed and your English reference letter from the GMC as mentioned in this guideline:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/cmt-application-process-for-imgs.html
4. Make your portfolio - The guideline is mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview/preparing-for-interview
5. Book your interview dates.
6. Wear formal clothes (Suit for males and work clothes for females)
7. Attend the interview
8. You will be sent an email that you have been selected.
9. You will be sent an excel file which will contain the following details:
- Number of years of core medical training (2 or 3)
- Trust
- Deanery
- Which departments you will be rotated in
10. You will then be asked to choose your preferences on the Oriel website.
11. You will be sent an email confirming your post and whether you wish to upgrade to a post which is higher up in the list of preferences if it becomes available
12. Once you have confirmed the job, you will be sent a confirmation letter.
13. The trust will apply for your COS
14. Your job will start on the 1st of August, 2017.
What is the excel file like?
I have uploaded it here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK
Your blogs state something which is no longer mentioned in the CT1 application requirement.
Yes, this is because I applied in 2017 and the criteria change annually. Overall, it is more the less the same.
However you must go through the latest guidelines mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/
Is there a minimum and maximum experience requirement?
As you can see, everything is mentioned on the official website:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/am-i-eligible/experience
Do I need to have a valid IELTS certificate to apply for CMT if I am working in the NHS currently?
No, I have mentioned this here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/cmt-application-process-for-imgs.html
NON TRAINING POSTS BEFORE CMT
What sort of job should I apply for after getting registered with the GMC? I plan to get into CMT. As you plan to train in medicine it is best to apply for a non training job in medicine with rotations in different medical specialties and on calls as I have explained here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
I have received an offer in another specialty. Should I take it?Working in another specialty like surgery, PAEDS, ED will not help you in any way.
Why is that?
When working in a medical specialty you can easily give your MRCP 1 and 2- as you will be seeing those cases discussed in the exam on a day to day basis making it easier for you to prepare. You can do audits and quality improvement projects in medical topics. You can attend medical courses and practice what you have learnt in your daily medical routine. Therefore you can build your CV (ie your portfolio) and show that you are committed to this field.
Non training posts in medicine are easily available. Therefore it is advisable that you should stick to a post in medicine if you plan to train in medicine.
FY2 LAT POSTS - ARE THEY WORTH IT FOR CMT?
Do I need to do FY2 LAT posts in order to apply for core medical training
No - you do not. Because there are so many posts in round 2 of CMT, there is no need to worry about it.
But what are the PROS and CONS of doing FY2 LAT posts?
In this case- there is no added advantage as there are plenty of seats in round 2 for CMT.
These are the disadvantages:
1. In order to do FY2 LAT posts, you will need to give an interview
2. You will need to apply for another visa which will cost money and time.
3. This whole process can be very distracting (you will not be able to focus on anything for 3 to 6 months during this whole process) - You will be better off if you stay in your trust and give MRCP 1 and 2 during this time. It will help you not only in your CMT application but also during your CMT 4. You will have to relocate to a new trust when you may have just settled into your current trust.
In my opinion, you need to be a bit smart about everything. Yes, you may be able to apply in round 1 in CMT but when there are so many slots in round 2, why bother? Save your money and time and do other things which will actually help in your career progression like:
1. Giving MRCP 1 and 2
2. Doing a QIP/audit
3. Doing case presentations
4. Teaching
5. Building your CV ie. your evidence folder for your CMT interview.
DURATION OF CMT
You said that core medical training is either 2 years or 3 years. What is this about?
The core medical structure is being changed in a few years as mentioned here:
https://hee.nhs.uk/our-work/developing-our-workforce/shape-training
Therefore Health Education England is piloting a 3 year program in some trusts.
No, I have mentioned this here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/cmt-application-process-for-imgs.html
NON TRAINING POSTS BEFORE CMT
What sort of job should I apply for after getting registered with the GMC? I plan to get into CMT. As you plan to train in medicine it is best to apply for a non training job in medicine with rotations in different medical specialties and on calls as I have explained here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
I have received an offer in another specialty. Should I take it?Working in another specialty like surgery, PAEDS, ED will not help you in any way.
Why is that?
When working in a medical specialty you can easily give your MRCP 1 and 2- as you will be seeing those cases discussed in the exam on a day to day basis making it easier for you to prepare. You can do audits and quality improvement projects in medical topics. You can attend medical courses and practice what you have learnt in your daily medical routine. Therefore you can build your CV (ie your portfolio) and show that you are committed to this field.
Non training posts in medicine are easily available. Therefore it is advisable that you should stick to a post in medicine if you plan to train in medicine.
FY2 LAT POSTS - ARE THEY WORTH IT FOR CMT?
Do I need to do FY2 LAT posts in order to apply for core medical training
No - you do not. Because there are so many posts in round 2 of CMT, there is no need to worry about it.
But what are the PROS and CONS of doing FY2 LAT posts?
In this case- there is no added advantage as there are plenty of seats in round 2 for CMT.
These are the disadvantages:
1. In order to do FY2 LAT posts, you will need to give an interview
2. You will need to apply for another visa which will cost money and time.
3. This whole process can be very distracting (you will not be able to focus on anything for 3 to 6 months during this whole process) - You will be better off if you stay in your trust and give MRCP 1 and 2 during this time. It will help you not only in your CMT application but also during your CMT 4. You will have to relocate to a new trust when you may have just settled into your current trust.
In my opinion, you need to be a bit smart about everything. Yes, you may be able to apply in round 1 in CMT but when there are so many slots in round 2, why bother? Save your money and time and do other things which will actually help in your career progression like:
1. Giving MRCP 1 and 2
2. Doing a QIP/audit
3. Doing case presentations
4. Teaching
5. Building your CV ie. your evidence folder for your CMT interview.
DURATION OF CMT
You said that core medical training is either 2 years or 3 years. What is this about?
The core medical structure is being changed in a few years as mentioned here:
https://hee.nhs.uk/our-work/developing-our-workforce/shape-training
Therefore Health Education England is piloting a 3 year program in some trusts.
Will this mean that I will have one year more than others before I apply for a consultant?
If you work in core medical training for 3 years then your ST training will start from ST4. So you will go through this: CT1, 2 and 3. then ST4 to ST7- then consultant.
Does it make a difference?
Personally I would prefer the 2 year training structure of core medical training as I would get too bored in a 3 year program.
APPLYING FOR CMT
What is the process of applying for CMT?
1. Check what documents you need as mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/
2. Check the dates of applying for round 2 and make an application on oriel:
https://www.oriel.nhs.uk/Web/Account/LandingPage
Remember not to submit your application till a few days before the application process closes as you may want to add more things to it while working in the NHS to make your CV stronger.
3. Get your foundation competencies signed and your English reference letter from the GMC as mentioned in this guideline:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/cmt-application-process-for-imgs.html
4. Make your portfolio - The guideline is mentioned here:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview/preparing-for-interview
5. Book your interview dates.
6. Wear formal clothes (Suit for males and work clothes for females)
7. Attend the interview
8. You will be sent an email that you have been selected.
9. You will be sent an excel file which will contain the following details:
- Number of years of core medical training (2 or 3)
- Trust
- Deanery
- Which departments you will be rotated in
10. You will then be asked to choose your preferences on the Oriel website.
11. You will be sent an email confirming your post and whether you wish to upgrade to a post which is higher up in the list of preferences if it becomes available
12. Once you have confirmed the job, you will be sent a confirmation letter.
13. The trust will apply for your COS
14. Your job will start on the 1st of August, 2017.
What is the excel file like?
I have uploaded it here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK
Kindly go through the files section here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/files/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/files/
And check the documents I uploaded from the 23rd of April to the 5th of May, 2017.
I do not have an eportolfio. Will I be able to get a post in core medical training?
Yes- you can. You should talk to your consultant and ask if the trust has any paper portfolios and use them to get assessments.
How important are these assessments?
There is a simple rule in the UK - if you do not have evidence of doing something, you have not done it. Therefore it is important to have some sort of assessment.
My consultant says that the trust does not have any paper based assessments. Join this group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/
And download the paper portfolios mentioned in the documents section here:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/imgs-in-the-uk/paper-portfolios-for-imgs-who-do-not-have-access-to-e-portfolios/1568120139887688/
I am currently doing a case study/research. I have not completed it but I have the summary typed and I am in the process of compiling it. May I show it during my interview?
Yes - you can. However please be careful to omit patients details as this is a breech of patients confidentiality and the interviews may not score you for that station if they find any patients details.
Read this important guidance on this:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/tsd/ig/
THE INTERVIEW
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview
How should I prepare for the interview?
Go through the book I have mentioned here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/giving-successful-interview.html
Should I attend a course for the interview?
There is no need- read the book mentioned in the blog above in detail. You will ace the interview!
Where is the interview?
It is held in different cities in the UK - Last time it was London, Manchester, Glasgow and a few other cities as well.
How can I choose the city I want to give an interview in?
You will be sent an email/message on oriel to apply for interviews- apply ASAP as the slots fill up easily.
What do I wear for the interview?
Formal clothes- tie and suit for males and work shirt, trouser and a formal coat for females.
What happens in the interview?
You will be asked to submit your evidence folders when you come to the interview center. The folders will be given to the interviewers who will go through these in detail and then make points.
You will then go through an ID check in which the admin people will check your eligibility folder and other documents they asked you bring to the interview.
There were 3 stations in my interview:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview/interview-structure-and-content
1. The portolfio station
The interviewers went through my folders with me and asked all sorts of questions. I was amazed at how much detail they knew about my documents.
2. Clinical scenario
I was asked to interpret an ECG , give my management plan and discuss differentials.
3. Ethical scenario
Which was given in this book:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Medical-Interviews-2nd-comprehensive-techniques/dp/1905812175
How much detail do the interviewers go into when going through our evidence and eligibility folders?
They check each and every document you have attached. During the interview, they asked me about a "security training" certificate I had attached in the certificates section of my evidence folder which was hidden among other certificates. So be expected to be questioned on whatever you are putting in your folder.
SELECTING A PARTICULAR CMT POST
How did you select this job?
I do not have an eportolfio. Will I be able to get a post in core medical training?
Yes- you can. You should talk to your consultant and ask if the trust has any paper portfolios and use them to get assessments.
How important are these assessments?
There is a simple rule in the UK - if you do not have evidence of doing something, you have not done it. Therefore it is important to have some sort of assessment.
My consultant says that the trust does not have any paper based assessments. Join this group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/
And download the paper portfolios mentioned in the documents section here:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/imgs-in-the-uk/paper-portfolios-for-imgs-who-do-not-have-access-to-e-portfolios/1568120139887688/
I am currently doing a case study/research. I have not completed it but I have the summary typed and I am in the process of compiling it. May I show it during my interview?
Yes - you can. However please be careful to omit patients details as this is a breech of patients confidentiality and the interviews may not score you for that station if they find any patients details.
Read this important guidance on this:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/tsd/ig/
THE INTERVIEW
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview
How should I prepare for the interview?
Go through the book I have mentioned here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/giving-successful-interview.html
Should I attend a course for the interview?
There is no need- read the book mentioned in the blog above in detail. You will ace the interview!
Where is the interview?
It is held in different cities in the UK - Last time it was London, Manchester, Glasgow and a few other cities as well.
How can I choose the city I want to give an interview in?
You will be sent an email/message on oriel to apply for interviews- apply ASAP as the slots fill up easily.
What do I wear for the interview?
Formal clothes- tie and suit for males and work shirt, trouser and a formal coat for females.
What happens in the interview?
You will be asked to submit your evidence folders when you come to the interview center. The folders will be given to the interviewers who will go through these in detail and then make points.
You will then go through an ID check in which the admin people will check your eligibility folder and other documents they asked you bring to the interview.
There were 3 stations in my interview:
http://www.ct1recruitment.org.uk/recruitment-process/interview/interview-structure-and-content
1. The portolfio station
The interviewers went through my folders with me and asked all sorts of questions. I was amazed at how much detail they knew about my documents.
2. Clinical scenario
I was asked to interpret an ECG , give my management plan and discuss differentials.
3. Ethical scenario
Which was given in this book:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Medical-Interviews-2nd-comprehensive-techniques/dp/1905812175
How much detail do the interviewers go into when going through our evidence and eligibility folders?
They check each and every document you have attached. During the interview, they asked me about a "security training" certificate I had attached in the certificates section of my evidence folder which was hidden among other certificates. So be expected to be questioned on whatever you are putting in your folder.
SELECTING A PARTICULAR CMT POST
How did you select this job?
After a week of giving the interview, the preferences list was released. It was an excel file containing the names of the deaneries, trusts and details of the rotations. I posted the file here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/1531844293515273/
I then copy pasted the details of the job into a word document which I also posted on the facebook group:
I printed this document and highlighted the jobs with the specialty I wish to work in ST3 (in my case it was gastro).
I then decided my preferences on the basis of:
1. Location. I wanted to work in the East Midlands/Yorkshire as the living expenses there are less. I used websites like http://www.rightmove.co.uk/ and http://www.zoopla.co.uk/ to see which towns and cities had the best apartments.
2. Review of hospital based on :
I was able to shortlist around 10 jobs as my top preferences which I ranked on my oriel application. I listed them in order of preference which was very confusing. And then I listed the other jobs which had gastro in their rotations. I listed the jobs in Ireland and Scotland and the jobs in England which did not have gastro as their rotations in the unwanted list.
I received an email on the 9th of May stating that I had been shortlisted for the job which I ranked 5th in my list which was:
Harrogate and York (North and East Yorkshire)
Harrogate: Respiratory, Neurology and Elderly
York: Renal, Gastro and Neurology.
Harrogate and York (North and East Yorkshire)
Harrogate: Respiratory, Neurology and Elderly
York: Renal, Gastro and Neurology.
I accepted it without the option of upgrades as I liked the trusts and the cities.
I would like to work in the same deanery. What are your reviews on it?
I would like to work in the same deanery. What are your reviews on it?
These preferences are very personal. I am married and had a car therefore we did not mind living in a small town.
Plus the deaneries cover a huge area and there are a lot of hospitals in that area - I am working in one of them which I really like. But as I said, everyone has personal preferences. In my case, I wanted to live in a small town which was
-Peaceful and beautiful (even if the living costs were slightly higher than the other towns in this part of England- but lower than the South)
- Near Asian cities (in this case, Leeds and Bradford).
- Still have all the basic amenities (like a reasonable town center and fast food chains).
Plus the deaneries cover a huge area and there are a lot of hospitals in that area - I am working in one of them which I really like. But as I said, everyone has personal preferences. In my case, I wanted to live in a small town which was
-Peaceful and beautiful (even if the living costs were slightly higher than the other towns in this part of England- but lower than the South)
- Near Asian cities (in this case, Leeds and Bradford).
- Still have all the basic amenities (like a reasonable town center and fast food chains).
What about the hospital?
This depends on your situation. If you have given your MRCP 1 and 2, you will be very relaxed in your job and will enjoy it even if you have to stay till late and have a very busy
day. Overall, all NHS trusts are more or less the same. If you want someones review on the trust ( which will be very subjective), then join this group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IMGs.in.the.UK/
And read this document:
TIMELINE
When should an IMG apply for CMT?
This depends on a lot of things - personally I worked in a non training post for around 18 months before I applied for core medical training. I did my ALS, gave my MRCP 2, did an audit and on calls during that time so I was fully immersed in the NHS and knew how to work as a junior doctor just like my trainee colleagues.
When I started my core medical training, I felt more at ease as I had done everything before.
So it all depends on your personality and your situation.
What do mean by my situation?
Are you the sort of person who like to do everything properly and would get anxious if you are not aware of how on calls work? - In that case it is best to take your time and get used to the NHS before you apply for core medical training - This can take 6 months to a year.
What about MRCP?
I would advise that you try to clear MRCP 1 and if possible, part 2 during your non training post before you apply for CMT so that you have only PACES to give during your CMT.
What if I am unable to give MRCP 1 and 2?
That is not a problem - I know a lot of people who gave MRCP 1, 2 and PACES in their 2 years of core medical training, maintained their portfolios and managed to get into their desired posts in ST3. It is difficult and you may not enjoy it as much but it is still possible.
So as an IMG, can I apply for core medical training directly?
It is up to you - I know a few IMGs who applied for core medical training as soon as they started work in the NHS and managed to get a job.
What are the PROS and CONS of doing this?
I have mentioned this here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html#!/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
EXPERIENCE
What is CMT like?
If you have worked as a non training SHO doctor, it will be the same but with extra support. You will have dedicated teaching days, regular meetings with your supervisors and have extra support like:
- Study budget
- The rota coordinator will be responsible to get another doctor to work in your place when you have a mandatory teaching day ( This does not apply to on calls - just regular 9 to 5 ward duty days).
- An e- portfolio
- For IMGs, the most important point is being able to apply for ST3 posts
- Free attendance at one PACES course arranged by your deanery.
I have heard that CMT is more of a service provision which we as non trainee doctors are doing anyway.
That is partially true - however I have no regrets of going for CMT as I feel-
1. I have more time to prepare for PACES
2. I can gear myself for a ST3 post by getting more exposure
3. I would have almost the same experience in the NHS as my other ST3 colleagues when I start working as a trainee registrar
ie 18 months as a non trainee and 2 years as a core medical trainee. UK graduates have a 2 year experience in foundation training and the same 2 year experience as core medical trainees.
That is partially true - however I have no regrets of going for CMT as I feel-
1. I have more time to prepare for PACES
2. I can gear myself for a ST3 post by getting more exposure
3. I would have almost the same experience in the NHS as my other ST3 colleagues when I start working as a trainee registrar
ie 18 months as a non trainee and 2 years as a core medical trainee. UK graduates have a 2 year experience in foundation training and the same 2 year experience as core medical trainees.
4. A registrar job can very busy therefore these 2 years have given me a chance to relax and settle in the UK.
My colleagues who have graduated from the UK have advised me against applying for core medical training.
Unfortunately, due to political reasons which I do not wish into a lot of UK graduates are unhappy in the NHS- this has caused a lot of doctors to drop out at a junior doctors level. This drop out has also resulted in vacancies in training posts such as :
- FY2 LAT posts
- CMT
-ST3 training posts
If this is so horrible, why should I go for it?
I am sure you have come all the way to the UK after doing your research. If you are unhappy too, then it best to go back to your home country.
However if you are fine and are learning, then you will be fine in the following years in the NHS.
Remember - we are not only here to train but to help sustain the worlds best healthcare system.
How is your experience of CMT?
I am enjoying it thoroughly. I am working in an amazing trust, live in a very nice city and I get enough time off for my training needs. I have mentioned my experience here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/my-second-job-in-uk-core-medical.html
My colleagues who have graduated from the UK have advised me against applying for core medical training.
Unfortunately, due to political reasons which I do not wish into a lot of UK graduates are unhappy in the NHS- this has caused a lot of doctors to drop out at a junior doctors level. This drop out has also resulted in vacancies in training posts such as :
- FY2 LAT posts
- CMT
-ST3 training posts
If this is so horrible, why should I go for it?
I am sure you have come all the way to the UK after doing your research. If you are unhappy too, then it best to go back to your home country.
However if you are fine and are learning, then you will be fine in the following years in the NHS.
Remember - we are not only here to train but to help sustain the worlds best healthcare system.
How is your experience of CMT?
I am enjoying it thoroughly. I am working in an amazing trust, live in a very nice city and I get enough time off for my training needs. I have mentioned my experience here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/my-second-job-in-uk-core-medical.html
E-PORTFOLIO IN CMT
What is an e-portfolio?
I have explained it here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/03/maintaining-your-e-portfolio.html
How is the e -portfolio in CMT different than the e-portfolio we get in our non training posts?
We have to achieve a certain number of assessments, do certain procedures and be signed off to do them independently and attend a certain number of clinics.
How does that help us?
The curriculum set in the NHS e portfolio is the syllabus of PACES - so it actually helps you prepare for it by just doing regular clinics, doing examination assessments, case based discussions, etc.
Which is why I advise that you should only have cleared MRCP 1 and 2 before you start your core medical training so that you can focus on your portfolio and thus you will be default be preparing for your PACES as well.
ARCP
What is ARCP?
This is an assessment done by your program director every May of your training. (S)he goes through your portfolio in March and advises you what to do in order to pass your ARCP.
Then you are called in May and a panel of consultants goes through your portfolio and give you a final assessment mark. This has been explained in detail here:
https://www.jrcptb.org.uk/training-certification/arcp-decision-aids
What happens if you fail your ARCP?
Your program director keeps requesting you to do whatever was missing and you have more than the meetings with your supervisors to ensure that you have sorted out the issues raised in your ARCP.
Do I need appraisals in my CMT?
The ARCP essentially is your appraisal so you do not need any appraisals in CMT.
PREPARING FOR CMT
I am planning to do CMT. What sort of job should I go for as my first job in the NHS?
A general medicine job with on calls and rotations as mentioned here:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/after-plab-2-applying-for-jobs.html
Should I go for an A&E/ ortho job as my first job in the NHS if I am planning to do CMT?
There is no point of working in A&E as that is a different specialty. You will be able to pass your exams quicker and will learn more in general medicine if you want to do CMT.
ST3
I have heard that by doing CMT, I will be eligible to apply for round 1 in ST3?
That is correct. The sponsor for your TIER 2 work visa is Health Education England and the sponsor will remain the same for ST3 - therefore you just need to apply for a new visa when you get a ST3 post once the trust who has employed you as a ST3 trainee gives you your COS.
CONSIDERING AN ALTERNATE SPECIALTY AFTER CMT
I want to do general surgery. I cannot get a training post in general surgery unless I do a training post prior to applying. Should I do CMT and then apply for surgery ST3?
Please read this post:
http://omarsguidelines.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/my-guideline-for-surgical-training-in-uk.html
What is the harm of applying for CMT in order to do ST3 in surgery?
It does not make sense to spend 2 years in a specialty and then apply for a training registrar post in a different specialty because :
1. If you plan to do ST3 surgery, then you will not be able to work on your CMT e-portfolio and are at risk of failing your ARCP.
2. You will not be able to focus on your surgery post graduate exams as you would be in CMT.
3. When you apply for surgery ST3, your colleagues would be given preference as they would have gone through core surgical training and would have more experience in surgery in the NHS than you.
4. Your interviewers during the surgery ST3 interview will notice that you are not committed to your specialty therefore you may not get the post.
So it is advisable not to apply for any other specialty after CMT?
Yes that is true- unless you have a very strong reason to do so. Some people may want to do ST3 in ED or may want to switch to GP training but they need a very good reason to do so.
Remember - you have spent your deanery's money on your core medical training so you will not give a very good impression to everyone else.
MY ADVICE FOR A COUPLE APPLYING FOR CMT TOGETHER
We are a couple and would like to apply for a training post in the same trust. What should we do?
We are a couple and would like to apply for a training post in the same trust. What should we do?
When the list of preferences is announced, keep the deaneries which have the maximum number of seats in your top priorities (keeping in mind what your personal preferences are as well). You may or may not get a job in the same trust.
What if we get jobs in different trusts?
If you have got a job in the same deanery then you may be working an hours drive from each other. You can get an apartment in a city which is in between both cities.
Which is why it is very important that both of you know how to drive (Go through the Driving in the UK section of this blog for more information on that)
Do bear in mind that travelling after a long shift is always risky and most people tend to stay in the hospital accommodation after doing a night shift.
Which is why it is very important that both of you know how to drive (Go through the Driving in the UK section of this blog for more information on that)
Do bear in mind that travelling after a long shift is always risky and most people tend to stay in the hospital accommodation after doing a night shift.
This will be very difficult!
This may sound difficult but it is not. Ask your colleagues - Most of them drive to work or take the train everyday. You get used to it.
What if we get jobs in different deaneries?
You can request a transfer to the same deanery. This is known as facilitated placement
Read the facilitated placement guideline here:
https://specialtytraining.hee.nhs.uk/Recruitment/Application-guidance
https://nhsdoctors.net/2018/05/20/getting-training-where-you-want-an-insight-into-upgrades-and-facilitated-placement/
MY FINAL ADVICE:
Definitely go for core medical training, it will increase your confidence and will help you give enough time to gain more skills and knowledge before you apply for ST3 in round 1.
Be smart about your career development - give MRCP 1 and if possible, part 2 before applying for core medical training. However if you cannot, it is not the end of the world.
What if we get jobs in different deaneries?
You can request a transfer to the same deanery. This is known as facilitated placement
Read the facilitated placement guideline here:
https://specialtytraining.hee.nhs.uk/Recruitment/Application-guidance
https://nhsdoctors.net/2018/05/20/getting-training-where-you-want-an-insight-into-upgrades-and-facilitated-placement/
MY FINAL ADVICE:
Definitely go for core medical training, it will increase your confidence and will help you give enough time to gain more skills and knowledge before you apply for ST3 in round 1.
Be smart about your career development - give MRCP 1 and if possible, part 2 before applying for core medical training. However if you cannot, it is not the end of the world.
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