Postgraduate Routes to GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors

  • April 20, 2022
 

Recognised postgraduate qualifications are essential to work in the NHS with full GMC registration.

The GMC must be satisfied you have sufficient knowledge and skills before it grants you a license to practice, and for international doctors there are various routes to be considered. Your experience and desired role in the NHS should help shape the route you take option for you. The following postgraduate routes are available to you:

PLAB

The first and most popular route for more junior doctors is the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board or PLAB as its commonly known. It is a two-part exam, with Part 1 taken all over the world and the second part taken in the UK only. It is a quick and relatively simple set of examinations for overseas doctors to work in the NHS.

Have a read through our detailed and helpful blog series on the PLAB for more information.

UK Postgraduate Qualifications / Royal College Qualifications

One of the most popular routes for overseas doctors is to attain a UK Postgraduate Qualification through one of the UK's Royal Colleges.

There are twenty-four Royal Colleges in existence in the UK, and they are the professional bodies responsible for the individual medical specialties they cover. Among their many duties, their role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter their respective professions.

UK trainees will sit a series of examinations set by their Royal College depending on what medical specialty they have chosen and these generally are set to a higher level of specialism and training when compared to the PLAB examinations.

Attaining a Royal College Qualification will of course satisfy GMC postgraduate criteria for full registration and are often the route for more senior international candidates looking to work in the UK. Certainly, if you want to 

Have a read through our Postgraduate Qualification section to find the qualification set against your specialty. The entire list of Royal College examinations can be found below.

Alternatively, have a look through our blog on PLAB v Royal College to help you decide.


CLICK ON THE QUALIFICATION BELOW TO READ A USEFUL GUIDE FOR IMGs.


Awarding Body 

Qualification

Royal College of Anaesthetists

Primary FRCA examination

Royal College of Emergency Medicine

Membership of the College of Emergency Medicine
(MCEM/MRCEM)

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
(MRCOG)

Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

Royal College of Pathologists

Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists
(FRCPath) by examination only

Haematology, Histopathology, Medical Microbiology

Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow

Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
(FRCS Glasg Ophthalmology)

Royal College of Physicians London 

Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh

Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow

Membership of the Royal College of Physicians MRCP (UK)

Royal College of Psychiatrists

Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists
(MRCPsych)

Royal College of Radiologists 

Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR)

Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh 

Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
(MRCS Ed Opthalmology)

Royal College of Surgeons of England

Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow

Any of the following:

Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - MRCS

Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - (MRCS (ENT))

Collegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - (MRCS)

Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons - (following examination) (FRCS)

Recognised or Equivalent Postgraduate Qualifications

Another option is to attain a GMC recognised overseas qualification. These overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC as equivalent and will be accepted as evidence that you have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to apply for full registration with a licence to practise.

Have a read through our blog on GMC Recognised Postgraduate Qualifications to find out if your qualification is on the list and recognised by the GMC. 

Please note, you must be granted full registration with a license to practice within three years of passing your postgraduate qualification.

Recognised Equivalent Qualifications

Country

Awarding Body

Qualification 

 

America

American Board of Pediatrics (ABP)

Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics - General Pediatrics

American Board of Anaesthesiology

Certificate of the American Board of Anaesthesiology

The American Board of Radiology 

The American Board of Radiology diagnostic radiology examination

Australia/New Zealand

Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists

Fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists

Royal Australasian College of Physicians 

FRACP Adult medicine or evidence of three years of basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations

OR

FRACP Paediatrics or evidence of three years basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists

Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP) awarded since January 2012

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists 

Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Clinical Radiology)

Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Radiation Oncology)

Bangladesh 

Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons

Fellowship in Anaesthesia or Anaesthesiology awarded since July 1999

Canada 

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - diagnostic radiology examination

Europe

European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology

European Diploma in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care 

Hong Kong

Hong Kong College of Physicians

Membership of the Hong Kong College of Physicians

Ireland

College of Anaesthetists of Ireland 

Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists

Royal College of Physicians in Ireland

 MRCP Medicine (Medicine of Childhood)

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

 

MRCS (collegiate examination)

MRSCI (intercollegiate examination)

Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland

Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Malaysia 

Ministry of Health

Master of Medicine (MMED) Malaysia with MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010

This must include four years of clinical experience (required to complete MMED) plus two years of training

Pakistan 

College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan

FCPS Paediatrics Pakistan

Fellowship in Anaesthesiology awarded since1998

Singapore

National University of Singapore

Master of Medicine (Paediatrics) 

Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) including MRCP (UK) 

Joint Committee on Specialist Training Singapore 

Master of Medicine (MMED) Singapore, plus MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010

South Africa

College of Anaesthetists of South Africa

Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa

FCA (SA)

Colleges of Medicine of South Africa 

Fellowship of the College of Radiologists of SA FC Rad Diag (SA) - Diag Rad awarded after 1 October 2013

Sri Lanka 

University of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Doctor of Medicine or MD (Anaesthesiology)

Doctor of Medicine or MD, (Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Doctor of Medicine or MD, (Paediatrics)

Doctor of Medicine or MD (medicine) awarded after January 2017

Doctor of Medicine or MD (surgery) awarded after July 2017

West Africa 

West African College of Physicians

Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians (Paediatrics)

West Indies 

University of the West Indies

Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia) awarded since September 2003

(Course title has since changed to Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia and Intensive care)


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Relevant Jobs

£80,693

A fantastic opportunity awaits Histopathologists seeking a fixed-term position. This Pathology Services provides support for CESR accreditation and facilitates entry into specialty training within the NHS. The department is both high-performing and supportive, particularly welcoming overseas doctors new to the NHS or UK-based doctors seeking career advancement. They deliver pathology services to their acute hospitals and local GPs, with some laboratories offering specialized services to the wider NHS and engaging in research studies. Serving 1.76 million patients and conducting 60 million tests, the partnership has resulted in 27,000 additional community phlebotomy appointments, improved turnaround times, and streamlined workflows.

The Pathology Service thrive on a dedicated workforce leveraging cutting-edge technologies, delivering exceptional clinical services centered on patient care.

What is the Pathology Service like?

The Pathology Services comprises four pathology laboratories. These laboratories are responsible for providing pathology services to both acute hospitals and local general practitioners. Additionally, certain laboratories within the network offer specialized services to the broader NHS and engage in research studies and trials. As part of a significant initiative within the NHS, pathology services in England are undergoing reorganization, transitioning into larger local network models. This restructuring has led to the establishment of 29 pathology units nationwide.

This development positions the pathology service as an exceptionally appealing workplace, situated at the forefront of NHS innovation and digitalization in pathology. Despite these advancements, this pathology service remains committed to delivering the latest tests and services, incorporating cutting-edge clinical science into modern patient care. Currently, they manage approximately 120,000 cases with a team of 36 consultants (augmented by some outsourcing), with the capacity to expand its consultant team to 40 full-time positions.

What is the department & team like? 

The Pathology Service was established following the Lord Carter review of Pathology services in England, aiming to reduce overtesting, enhance resilience, and lower costs. amalgamates staff, services, and IT platforms from four trusts to enhance pathology quality in the Black Country, serving 1.4 million individuals and conducting 60 million tests annually. It underwent a comprehensive IT system overhaul to facilitate integrated services, embrace new technologies, and expedite laboratory results.

The pathology service operates three laboratories offering nationally accredited consultant-led pathology services. With state-of-the-art facilities and IT systems, they garnered commendation from Lord Carter for its efficiency and innovation in pathology. Notably, innovations showcased during Lord Carter\'s visit in 2021 included pre-barcoded tubes for sample tracking and digital automation in microbiology labs.

Lord Carter praised the service as a model of service integration and technological advancement, emphasizing the importance of technology, including artificial intelligence, in expediting diagnostics. He commended the leadership and dedication of the staff, highlighting their achievements and commitment to patient care. The evidence is there to be seen, as latest figures show they scored 92 per cent compliance on a dashboard provided by NHS Improvement, ranking it one of the best performing services in the country 

Career Development & Opportunities Available 

Career development opportunities are aplenty. The Centre is one of the highest performing centres in the UK, with excellent CQC scores, a fantastic leadership team, and highly advanced specialist reporting functions. All of this provides an excellent platform for anyone to excel and develop, whether it\'s a step towards specialisation in one anatomical area, or whether it\'s advancing yourself in the world of digital pathology, the right individual can really flourish here.

Digital Pathology and AI is a massive part of what the Group are doing, and part of what makes this opportunity so exciting. Working from home, working abroad, or taking on additional workload out of hours - digital pathology is taking off. They are the most advanced Digital Pathology Service in the UK, and this provides everyone with huge opportunity to grow and develop in a really exciting global field of pathology.

Life in the West Midlands

Based is a modern industrial city situated on the midlands. It is compact, with no boundary more than four miles from the centre and is approximately a 30-minute drive to Birmingham (15 miles), 1 hour 20 minutes to Manchester (60 miles). The city is an urban, multi-ethnic city with a population of around 250,000. The wider hospital catchment area has a population of in excess of 350,000. With more than 600 shops, bars, café and restaurants, the city is not only a great place to work but also somewhere to relax and enjoy. The city centre is just a 10-minute bus ride from the Hospital. 

The nearby countryside of Staffordshire and Shropshire is delightful. To the north is Cannock Chase and to the west the Shropshire borders with attractions of Bridgnorth, the Clee Hills, the Long Mynd, Wenlock Edge, and the Severn Valley. South of Wolverhampton, the City of Worcester is easily accessible, and to the west north-Wales can be reached in just over an hour. The area has a large network of canals, the majority renovated, offering adjacent housing and popular for narrow boat holidays.

Am I eligible for this role?

To be eligible for this vacancy you will need the following: 

EEA candidates: 

  • Recognised European Medical Degree
  • Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
  • IELTS or OET 

Non-EEA candidates: 

  • FRCPath
  • IELTS or OET 

UK-based candidates: 

  • Within six months of CCT or CCT Holder

This is a great opportunity for any experienced histopathologist interested in specialisation, and with interest in digital pathology. 

93,666-126,281

An excellent opportunity to join the dynamic team at an esteemed organization recognized for its excellence by the CQC. This is an opportune moment to become part of the Acute Medicine and Medicine Specialties Teams. With a strong history of achievements, they are committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. They are seeking dynamic and motivated specialists histopathologists to become part of their welcoming and enthusiastic gastroenterology team. This presents a chance to join a dedicated histopathology team committed to delivering the highest quality comprehensive service.

This is a great opportunity for overseas consultants or specialists who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their consultant career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

The NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the nation\'s largest integrated healthcare organizations, delivering both hospital and community services to a populace exceeding 650,000 individuals. Renowned for their ambition and innovation, they boast a skilled workforce comprising over 7,000 dedicated colleagues. Operating across two acute sites for hospital services and encompassing centers and community hospitals in six towns for planned care, they extend their services even to patients\' residences.

Recognized as a high-performing entity with a history of accomplishments, the Trust has functioned as an integrated acute and community services provider since 2011 and achieved foundation trust status in 2007. Guided by their strategic framework \"Our Patients Matter,\" they articulate their short- and long-term objectives and delineate the path to their realization. This framework underscores their commitment to providing the safest, most compassionate, and seamlessly coordinated care to the communities they serve.

Within this NHS Foundation Trust, medical professionals are presented with a plethora of career prospects and exposure to diverse care settings rarely encountered elsewhere. Additionally, they have the opportunity to reside and practice in some of the most culturally rich and picturesque locations across the country!

What is the Department & Team like?

The Histopathology department is dedicated to delivering precise diagnostic services crucial for patient care. Led by a team of experienced consultants and supported by junior doctors and skilled laboratory personnel, the department handles a wide array of cases across various medical disciplines. This includes examining tissue specimens for cancer diagnosis, assessing surgical margins, and identifying infectious diseases.

Equipped with advanced technology and instrumentation such as microscopes, tissue processing equipment, and digital imaging systems, the department ensures accurate diagnosis. The team collaborates closely with other departments like surgery, oncology, and radiology to ensure seamless patient care.

The department processes a significant volume of histopathology and cytology cases, providing essential information to clinicians for treatment planning and patient management. Committed to excellence and precision, the Histopathology team plays a pivotal role in delivering top-notch healthcare to the community.

What is life like in the area?

The North East of the UK offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore stunning coastal areas like Northumberland\'s beaches or venture inland to scenic national parks such as the North Pennines. The region is home to respected schools and universities, including Newcastle University. Transportation links are robust, with efficient road and rail networks connecting residents to major cities like Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, as well as international airports. Housing options range from quaint cottages in picturesque villages to modern apartments in vibrant city centers, catering to various lifestyles.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Histopathology
  • Specialist Qualification in Histopathology

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • FRCPath
  • Experience of working in Histopathology

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Histopathology
99,532 - 131,964

An exciting opportunity for a Consultant Breast Radiologist with expertise in breast and general radiology to work for a health board that aims to provide the best services to their patients. Ideal for overseas consultants looking to establish themselves in the NHS. The health board serves a population of 384,000 in several towns. They aim to improve healthcare by collaborating with local government and the third sector.

You will be a part of the Breast Radiology Department, which is a vital part of the healthcare service in the area, providing comprehensive diagnostic and interventional breast radiology services. Their team includes experienced consultants and junior doctors, ensuring high-quality care. The facility is well-equipped, and the successful candidate will lead and enhance the department\'s services. You will have a lot of growth opportunities as the Health Board is involved in education and research, with strong links to other universities. They aim to engage emerging clinicians in addressing Prudent Health Cares. Their Clinical Research Facility and initiatives in BioBanking and telemonitoring demonstrate their commitment to research and advancement.

It is situated in a town that offers a tranquil lifestyle with access to scenic coastal areas. It is a blend of rural and urban living. The region features quality schools and links to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Transportation connections are strong, and housing options are diverse, catering to different preferences. It\'s a balanced location for professionals and families.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • Board Certified Specialist in Radiology

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • FRCR

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
101382

An excellentHealth Board is actively seeking a Consultant Interventional Radiologist to join their innovative team. The role involves enhancing radiological services across the Health Board, reflecting their commitment to exceptional patient care. This opportunity is well-suited for overseas Consultants looking to establish themselves in the NHS or experienced IMGs seeking to complete CESR requirements.

The Health Board caters to 384,000 residents across several towns, delivering a wide spectrum of healthcare services. Their dedication to patient well-being includes a focus on continuous improvement, achieved through collaboration with local government and the third sector. The Health Board actively promotes education and research, fostering multi-profession teaching and supporting the development of up-and-coming clinicians. Their Clinical Research Facility and initiatives like BioBanking and telemonitoring reflect their commitment to advancing healthcare.

The Interventional Radiology Department is well-equipped and managed by experienced consultants and junior doctors. They provide comprehensive care, specializing in minimally invasive treatments for various conditions. Their advanced imaging technology ensures accurate diagnoses, and they handle a significant caseload of interventional radiology cases.

The hospital sits within a town that offers a balanced lifestyle with both urban conveniences and access to scenic rural areas. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, high-quality schools, and strong transportation links to major cities and airports. Housing options are diverse, accommodating various preferences. This opportunity presents a holistic and enriching professional and personal life for healthcare professionals.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • Board Certified Specialist in Radiology

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • FRCR

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Radiology
  • Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
99,532 - 131,964

This is a good opportunity for any FRCPath or European-qualified histopathologists to join a friendly, high calibre department in the North East of England. The department are looking for experienced but hungry histopathologists to join them for a long-term post, and the trust will support candidates working on the Portfolio Pathway in Histopathology (formerly known as CESR). The trust will consider both UK and overseas applicants.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

The NHS Foundation Trust serves as a district general hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the local population. Under its management, various healthcare facilities in the region. Consistent positive evaluations from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) underscore its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care, safety, and efficiency. The catchment area of this trust encompasses the north east, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive healthcare close to home. Through its services, the trust plays a vital role in promoting community health and well-being, contributing to a stronger, healthier population.

What is the department & team like?

The department have been centralized at a state-of-the-art Pathology Centre located at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s main hospital. These services cater to the local population in the North East. The consolidation of Cellular Pathology Services, completed in 2014, marks an innovative reorganization in pathology services. Satellite hot lab facilities are available at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s other sites. The NHS Foundation Trust leads this service, and the appointed individual will be contracted.

Pathologists are equipped with high-quality IT infrastructure to facilitate remote attendance at Multidisciplinary Team Meetings (MDTs). In cases where physical presence is required, a departmental electric car or a hopper service is available for transportation. Digital pathology implementation is underway progressively for pathologists interested in participation.

Career Development & Further Opportunities Available

The department will in time be moving towards a specialist reporting model and there will be opportunity to carve out your lead role in either the GI, head & neck, and urology sub-specialties. 

Life in North East

The North East of England offers a diverse mix of rural landscapes and urban centers, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore historic sites like Hadrian\'s Wall or enjoy scenic walks along the Northumberland coast. The area boasts reputable schools and universities such as Durham University. Transportation links are efficient, connecting the region to major cities like Newcastle and Sunderland, as well as airports for convenient travel. Housing options vary from picturesque villages to modern city apartments, accommodating different preferences and lifestyles.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

Non-EEA candidates: 

  • FRCPath
  • Experience in Histopathology

EEA candidates: 

  • Specialist certification in Histopathology
  • Experience in Histopathology 

UK candidates: 

  • CCT, CESR or within 6-12 months of specialist registration 
  • Experience in Histopathology

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