Medical Training in the UK

adviceAdvice for Greek doctors seeking to work or train in the UK

  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:
    www.aomrc.org.uk/about-us/academy-members/
  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 jobs.bmj.com as well as on the NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk and via registered recruitment agencies www.nhsemployers.org/your-workforce/recruit/employer-led-recruitment/international-recruitment/uk-code-of-practice-for-international-recruitment/recruitment-agency-list
  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:
    www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/eea-countries/greece
    www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing
    www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/working-as-a-doctor-in-the-uk
    www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/registration-applications/application-registration
  4. A valuable source of information is also the British Medical Association: www.bma.org.uk/advice/work-life-support/life-and-work-in-the-uk/guide-for-doctors-new-to-the-uk
  5. The British Medical Council in Greece provides a paid consultancy service for those looking for medical employment in the UK www.britishcouncil.gr/en/study-uk/medical-dentistry-consultancy

Last updated 19/11/18

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