1. The system of specialist training in the UK is considerably different to that of Greece and becoming a specialist (Consultant) involves a longer training period. To complete the specialisation it is mandatory to pass written, oral and clinical exams, usually in two steps, during the training. The exams are organised by the relevant medical “Royal Colleges” for each specialty. For more information on exams and a full list of all Royal Colleges visit: http://www.bmjcareers.com/tpl/section.pl?sn=links

2. To obtain a training or non-training medical position, there is usually an “open competition” process that involves completing and submitting an application form and / or a CV with a covering letter. It is always necessary to complete an application form or write up a CV or covering letter with extra care. The short-listing process is based on information found on the application form, CV and letters. Applicants then may be selected for an interview and if they are successful, they are offered a contract for a fixed period of time. Current medical jobs are advertised on the weekly British Medical Journal (BMJ) and can be found at: http://www.bmjcareers.com/tpl/jobsCurrent.php

3. In order to take up appointments in the UK, doctors must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). This process may take a couple of months, so early planning is advised. Information on how to register with the GMC can be found at: http://www.gmc-uk.org/doctors

4. A valuable source of information that summarises answers to most common questions overseas doctors may have, is the special issue of BMJ “Career focus theme issue for overseas doctors”: http://careerfocus.bmjjournals.com/content/vol325/issue7373/index.shtml

5. Finally, doctors should know that the current system of medical specialisation in the UK is undergoing major changes. Information on these changes can be found on the ‘Modernising Medical Careers’ website: http://www.mmc.nhs.uk/pages/home