My Experience of MRCEM Primary - Dr Behzad Rashid
- September 21, 2022
Are you an overseas emergency medicine doctor taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration through the MRCEM exams? Are you interested in sitting the exams in the future?
As part of IMG Stories, we introduce to you Dr Behzad Rashid, an emergency medicine doctor who has recently sat and passed the MRCEM Primary exam. Dr Rashid will be sharing with you his experiences of the first of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine exams, taking you through his preparation, experience of sitting the exam and sharing some hot tips for international MRCEM aspirants.
Tell us about yourself... what should the IMG Community know about Behzad Rashid?
I am a Resident Emergency Medicine Physician, currently working in Pakistan and have worked in A&E since completing my internship. I started off as a medical officer, and then began an A&E residency programme in my country. I would say a combination of hard work and fate are the reason why I am where I am today.
What motivated you to sit the MRCEM exams?
I had booked a space on the PLAB 1 exam, however, due to COVID, it was unfortunately cancelled (three times in fact). By the third time, I’d had enough. I decided to progress my career in Pakistan because I felt I wasn’t getting anywhere with the exam bookings, and everything was very uncertain at that time.
Even though time felt like it had stopped, it was actually flying by. I therefore decided to sit the residency exam in Pakistan. I worked in A&E at the time and had heard about the MRCEM exams from my colleagues. Due to the lockdown, they had just announced that the exam could now be taken online, even within the comfort of your own home. I was ready to go all in and grind my way through both exams, so I studied and succeeded in clearing both PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary.
At what point in your career and training did you sit the MRCEM Primary exam?
There wasn’t anything in particular that made me realise that I was ready to sit this exam, besides the fact that COVID had been ruining my plans. I was going through a difficult time, and A&E was something I dearly wanted to pursue. I saw an opportunity, and I took it.
Applications can be frustrating… how did you find the application process for the exam?
The whole process took me about 30-45 minutes to complete. The details of application and exam are available on the website, and whilst a bit tedious, it is a straightforward process. Based on the RCEM’s eligibility criteria for the first exam, you only need to have graduated with an approved medical degree in order to sit the exam.
Since I was planning to sit the exam in my own country, I was provided with some options for exam centres. There were multiple private exam centres nearby, and I did not want to sit the exam at home and risk the internet issues others had experienced. I booked my exam for 8 am, because that's when I function best, and I would recommend that everyone books whatever time of day you think you would perform best.
How far in advance did you start preparing for the MRCEM Primary?
I booked the exam 4 months in advance (around the end of October, with the exam in Dec). Everyone has their own method of studying, and for some, this may not be enough time, so whatever schedule has worked for you in the past - stick to it. In my opinion this exam requires about 3-4 months of studying if you are unemployed or have any daily commitments, and about 5-6 months if you are working or have a very busy schedule.
Often IMGs are a bit at a loss to get support... did you benefit from speaking to senior colleagues or peers about the exam? Did you study with other candidates?
I was in touch with a few individuals who had already sat the exam. They guided me through the application process and resources I could use to prepare. They were also the ones who entertained my idea in preparing for both exams at once, and they believed that I could succeed in both.
You don’t need a lot of friends, just the right ones who will push and support you in your journey.
You were preparing for PLAB at the same time as the Royal College exams...how do you feel studying for PLAB 1 compares to your experience of MRCEM Primary?
PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary are completely different exams.
PLAB 1 focuses on the application of medical knowledge in common day-to-day scenarios that a doctor would encounter in the UK. MRCEM Primary is more of a theoretical assessment of the basics i.e. anatomy and physiology of emergency related scenarios. This became even more apparent after I’d gone over the curriculum provided by the GMC and RCEM, which is honestly the best part of the exams. I would not say that one is easier than the other – they assess different things.
I focused on the blueprint/curriculum for each exam and made sure to get in as many MCQs as possible. That gave me a better overview of what I would actually be tested on.
Emergency medicine doctors are notoriously busy...in the months leading up to the exam, how much time did you spend a week on preparation?
In my case, I had to appear for the MRCEM Primary first, and then a week later for the Pakistan Residency (FCPS I) exam. Since work was extremely hectic, and I felt that I was not able to set aside much time to prepare for both, I quit my job to study for the exams and managed my time throughout the day to study and prepare for both (around 12 hours each day).
It goes without saying that any goal without a plan is just a wish. I divided my day into 2 halves where I would wake up at 5am, and study till 12pm, take a break (which included sleeping, eating or working out), then start off again at 5pm and go at it till 10pm. The first half would be MCQS and making Anki flash cards, second half would be to review the cards I had pending for that day. I would throw in a mock exam every week to see where I stood at that point, correct my mistakes and make cards on those as well. I stuck to this routine for 3 months and by the end of the 3 months, I had a deck of about 2000 Anki flash cards, divided into two groups for the 2 exams, and that is all I would review because I was confident that is all they would test me on.
How did you manage to juggle other commitments whilst studying for the exam (without panicking)?
During COVID, I was pretty much stranded by myself in Pakistan. My family lived in a different country, and I had limited interactions with the family I did have around me. This bizarre period of isolation and confusion gave me ample time to prepare for my exams. Being alone did get frustrating at times, and anxiety would creep up on me, but the hunger to clear my exams and progress my career gave me tunnel vision and cancelled out all the other noise.
The preparation for 2 examinations was an enlightening and humbling experience. My goal is to reach out to students and help them understand what works best for them. I’d be more than happy to provide students with any resources (Including my Anki flash cards) they need. However, there isn’t a cookie cutter plan that will suit everyone - I did what was best for me in my circumstances, and you must do the same.
What resources did you use to prepare and practice for the MRCEM Primary exam?
I used the curriculum provided by the MRCEM on their website which you will find here.
Along with that I was using the MRCEM Success question bank, which I have to say is an excellent resource. The actual exam was very close to the MCQs provided, which is why I would highly recommend it.
I am also an avid user of Anki. It has helped me ace exams in med school, the MRCEM primary, FCPS I and even the PLAB 1. I have never made any notes from any textbooks, and I honestly think hardcovers will eventually become obsolete. I would highly recommend making your own cards since that allows you to work at your own pace and address any weak points. I would love to share my own deck of Anki cards as well, which covers everything provided in the MRCEM curriculum. Feel free to add more to this deck and pay it forward.
Let's face it, exams are not everyone's favourite day out... so on the day of the exam, what did you do to relax?
I woke up early and decided not to go over any cards. I’m the type of exam-taker who enjoys working out and listening to music before an exam. At that point, I know what I know, and that is all I know. So I drank a nice cup of coffee and got some cardio done while listening to music.
What was your experience like on the day?
My exam was around 8:30am, so the drive was about 5 minutes to the exam hall and I got there around 30 minutes before it started. The invigilator was friendly and after leaving my personal belongings in a small locker, they provided a sheet of paper and stationary at the centre. The computer prompted me to start once the invigilator asked me to, and everything after that went smoothly. The invigilators are ready to help you with your queries if you experience any problems during the exam as well.
What was the most challenging part of the exam?
In my honest opinion, I did not come across anything that would throw me off. After going over the curriculum, and having a plan, I just stuck to that plan and followed it till the end.
In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
I was already taking the most extreme measures by preparing for multiple exams and taking time off work, given everything was shut down during COVID. I have no regrets and cannot think of anything I’d have done differently.
What nuggets of advice would you give to any MRCEM Primary aspirants?
The best thing about the Royal College exams is that they provide a curriculum of what you should know, and they would never ask anything more than that. I would highly recommend you go over that and familiarise yourself with the content you will be tested on. Question banks might provide extra information to give you a different perspective of the subject, however the real exam sticks to its curriculum. If you know what you are required to know, preparation for the exam becomes easier.
What are your plans going forward?
I'm planning on appearing for the PLAB 2 and the MRCEM Intermediate soon. I have already started preparing my Anki deck for the intermediate as well, so wish me luck and stay tuned for that as well.
To learn more about the RCEM exams, see our IMG Resources library.
For news and updates on all things emergency medicine, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
An outstanding SAS job opportunity for experienced Emergency Medicine doctors to attain CESR and work in an NHS Trust that is committed to providing the best quality care. This Trust was rated \"Good\" overall, and is one of the largest employers in the South East England region and their members and staff are dedicated professionals whose work is varied, challenging and makes a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
The post is suitable for emergency candidates candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced Emergency Medicine Specialists looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
The Trust is one of the largest organisations in the country and they employ over 6,000 dedicated staff with an annual turnover of £380 million who provides service to 525,000 people that live within the area. Their services are mainly provided from two district general hospitals, both have Emergency Departments and provide care 24 hours a day. They offer a comprehensive range of surgical, medical and maternity services supported by a full range of diagnostic and therapy services.
The role of the NHS Trust is to provide the best possible healthcare service to patients, who come first in everything the organisation does. Safe patient care is the Trust\'s highest priority. They will provide high quality clinical services that achieve and demonstrate optimum clinical outcomes and provide an excellent care experience for patients. The employees will be valued and respected. They will be involved in decisions about the services they provide and offered the training and development that they need to fulfill their roles.
They will operate efficiently and effectively, diagnosing and treating patients in timely fashion and expediting their return to health. They will use their resources efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their patients and their care to ensure our services are clinically, operationally, and financially sustainable.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The NHS Trust supports 2 Emergency Departments (1 each at their 2 main hospitals). The Emergency Department at the first site is a designated Trauma Unit A, with a total of over 120,000 new patients attended in 2018/2019. In addition to that, it has a dedicated radiology room supporting PACS. The ED has 18 cubicles (4minors, 2 paediatric, 12 majors 1 ENT/Ophthalmology with a slit lamp, operating theatre with theatre lighting) and a resuscitation area supporting 4 bays.
The Emergency Department at the second site has a co-located radiology room supporting. The ED has 19 cubicles (3 minors, 1 ENP room and 15 major’s spaces) and a resuscitation area supporting 4 adult trolleys and 2 paediatric bays. The resuscitation area for Conquest Hospital has recently been upgraded. Each bay has new monitoring equipment with end tidal CO2, its own ventilator and defibrillator. The resuscitation area at Eastbourne General Hospital has monitoring with end tidal CO2, its own ventilator and defibrillator at each bay.
The specialty doctors, together with the two registrars provide a full 24 hr middle grade rota. The Specialty Doctor will be responsible for the primary management of patients attending the department and for supervising and assisting the more junior grades of doctor. The specialty doctor will also be expected to lead the trauma team and assist the cardiac arrest team if required.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The region has a natural beauty! The town where the first site is, is a working fishing port, but its relaxed seaside vibe and proximity to London make it a hotspot for those looking for a picturesque bolthole. This town is one of the best-connected seaside resorts in the Southeast. This is perfect for a seaside retreat without the price tag of popular neighbouring town. This town became a prosperous Victorian seaside town, and its timeless Old Town still welcomes visitors with scenic passageways and a multitude of antique shops, quirky independent retailers and atmospheric pubs.
The second town, where the second site is, is a large seaside resort. Its Victorian roots means have blessed it with large properties and generous, tree-lined streets. This town tends to be more affordable than their neighbouring town. You’ll find rows of traditional Victorian seaside homes in this coastal town. For modern homes with sea views, look no further than Sovereign Harbour. Sleek new apartments and penthouses jostle for space alongside restaurants and shops at this waterfront destination.
Both towns have a rich cultural heritage with numerous cultural and tourist attractions and a variety of opportunities to participate in sports, arts and leisure activities. It also has a rich and fascinating history, and it’s full of culture and character with a variety of things to do and experience, from witnessing the local talent in theatre and music, to enjoying the varied and beautiful landscape.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The combination of clinical practice and first-class academic connections means that medical professionals have a wide range of opportunities to develop their careers and achieve their aspirations. You will have access to leadership, teaching, educational and research opportunities for Continued Professional Develop (CPD).
If you are a new consultant you will receive mentoring and support from medical leads as well as access to a large peer group of enthusiastic and high-caliber Consultants.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine (essential)
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine (desirable)
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCEM (UK) (essential)
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine (essential)
- Specialist training in Emergency Medicine (desirable)
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine (essential)
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Specialty Doctor in Emergency Medicine to join a Health Board in North Wales that promotes equality and diversity. If you love a challenge, have a passion to help others or simple fancy a fresh start, then this Health Board has all the ingredients. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Emergency Medicine holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade.
Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed.
WHAT IS HEALTH BOARD LIKE?
The Health Board is largest health organisation in Wales, that are developing an integrated health service which provides excellent care delivered in partnership with the public and other statutory and third sector organisations.
The Health Board have a budget of £1.3 billion and a workforce of over 17,000 staff. Providing primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for the population of around 700,000 across of North Wales. They continuously develop their workforce so that it has the right skills and operates in a research-rich learning culture.
Besides their three main hospital sites, they are also responsible for community hospitals, health centres, clinics, mental health units, community teams, GP practices and other NHS services provided by dentists, opticians and pharmacists. They plan to improve the health of the population, with particular focus upon the most vulnerable in our society.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The department has an annual attendance of approximately 58,000 patients, and sees the full range of presentations from major trauma, to complex medical presentations, critical illness, and paediatric emergencies. The ED has excellent support from and close working relationships with the inpatient medical, paediatric, critical care, radiology, and surgical specialty teams.
The department has a Reception and Triage area - operating on a 24-hour basis, with specially trained reception and nursing staff in attendance, a clinical area for adults & children and ED observation ward. The department runs weekly safety and governance meetings and has a rolling audit programme. Safety and good clinical governance are given extremely high priority in the ED and specialty doctors will be expected to contribute fully to safety initiatives, quality improvement and governance work and to participation in audit cycles within the ED.
The department has an active teaching programme and specialty doctors are encouraged to contribute to this. The ED is keen to support specialty doctors in developing additional areas of special interest within Emergency Medicine, for example such as in sedation, paediatrics, research, education, and interest in IT.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH WALES?
North Wales has a vast national park, purpose built mountain biking trails, a breath taking coastal path, soaring zip wire, food festivals and world class sport and adventure around every corner. The North Wales is equipped with sport and leisure centres that provide opportunities for a wide variety of sporting, fitness and recreational activities. Not only does it have lots of activities for you, it also has a wide selection of private housing is available, both traditional and modern in towns, villages and rural settings.
For doctors with family, the educational standards are consistently high in both the primary and secondary sectors. There are several well established independent schools within North Wales and the surrounding area that cater for both day pupils and boarders. The Regional University with its excellent scholastic reputation has a thriving student community.
You can say goodbye to heavy inner city commuter traffic, and enjoy a breath-taking commute across North Wales.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS HEALTH BOARD?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join a Health Board in North Wales that promotes equality and diversity. If you love a challenge, have a passion to help others or simple fancy a fresh start, then this Health Board has all the ingredients. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Emergency Medicine holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade.
Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed.
WHAT IS HEALTH BOARD LIKE?
The Health Board is largest health organisation in Wales, that are developing an integrated health service which provides excellent care delivered in partnership with the public and other statutory and third sector organisations.
The Health Board have a budget of £1.3 billion and a workforce of over 17,000 staff. Providing primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for the population of around 700,000 across of North Wales. They continuously develop their workforce so that it has the right skills and operates in a research-rich learning culture.
Besides their three main hospital sites, they are also responsible for community hospitals, health centres, clinics, mental health units, community teams, GP practices and other NHS services provided by dentists, opticians and pharmacists. They plan to improve the health of the population, with particular focus upon the most vulnerable in our society.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Department serves a resident population of approximately 250,000 which is greatly increased at weekends and in holiday periods due to the half million visitor days/year spent in their catchment area, resulting in a high seasonal and weekday/weekend variation in ED attendances. Emergency Department sees a wide and interesting case mix of emergencies in all specialities, with very few “inappropriate attenders” compared to many urban UK EDs.
The department has a five-bedded Emergency Department Observation Unit within ED and there is a dedicated Minor Injury area that runs until midnight where most of our Minor Injury workload is handled by our team of ENPs. The local GP Out-of-Hours service has been co-located adjacent to the ED since 2006. Very close working relationships are enjoyed with colleagues in OOH primary care, with movement of patients from one stream to the other in both directions.
The Emergency Department is currently staffed by: 7 Consultants (including this post), 2 Associate Specialists (on the senior tier), typically 8-12 Clinical Fellows (post-ACCS/ST4-equivalent doctors who do 80% EM and 20% either PHEM or Medical Education), 1 ST4-6 (Wales Deanery), 1 ST3 (Wales Deanery), 8 SHO-tier doctors (3 x FY2, 1 x ACCS, 4 x GPST and a “Health Board SHO”), Typically 3-5 FY3 posts & 1 Academic F2 doctor.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH WALES?
North Wales has a vast national park, purpose built mountain biking trails, a breath taking coastal path, soaring zip wire, food festivals and world class sport and adventure around every corner. The North Wales is equipped with sport and leisure centres that provide opportunities for a wide variety of sporting, fitness and recreational activities. Not only does it have lots of activities for you, it also has a wide selection of private housing is available, both traditional and modern in towns, villages and rural settings.
For doctors with family, the educational standards are consistently high in both the primary and secondary sectors. There are several well established independent schools within North Wales and the surrounding area that cater for both day pupils and boarders. The regional University with its excellent scholastic reputation has a thriving student community.
You can say goodbye to heavy inner city commuter traffic, and enjoy a breath-taking commute across North Wales.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS HEALTH BOARD?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An outstanding opportunity for experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join an NHS Trust that is committed to providing the best quality care to the people of East Sussex by attracting and recruiting passionate people who share this commitment. This Trust is one of the largest employers in the region and their members and staff are dedicated professionals whose work is varied, challenging and makes a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
The Trust is one of the largest organisations in the country and they employ over 6,000 dedicated staff with an annual turnover of £380 million who provides service to 525,000 people that live within the area. Their services are mainly provided from two district general hospitals, both have Emergency Departments and provide care 24 hours a day. They offer a comprehensive range of surgical, medical and maternity services supported by a full range of diagnostic and therapy services.
The role of the NHS Trust is to provide the best possible healthcare service to patients, who come first in everything the organisation does. Safe patient care is the Trust's highest priority. They will provide high quality clinical services that achieve and demonstrate optimum clinical outcomes and provide an excellent care experience for patients. The employees will be valued and respected. They will be involved in decisions about the services they provide and offered the training and development that they need to fulfill their roles.
They will operate efficiently and effectively, diagnosing and treating patients in timely fashion and expediting their return to health. They will use their resources efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their patients and their care to ensure our services are clinically, operationally, and financially sustainable.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Emergency Department is a team of consultant that focuses on being on top of taking care of their patients. The department is open for hours a day, seven days a week for those seeking treatment for an urgent problem that may be caused by an accident or an illness. In the last year, there were 130,000 visits in their department.
Urgent Treatment Centres are being in developed nationally with the aim to provide same day ‘urgent treatment’ operating in a fully integrated way with the local community. The department has a vision is to provide an urgent care stream from the front door of the Emergency Department and develop innovative interoperable ways to ensure that the patients receive the right care at the right time and in the right place.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The region has a natural beauty. Sussex has some fantastic natural features such as the Seven Sisters National Park, and many areas of outstanding natural beauty that include the medieval heathland and forests of the High Weald. It also has beaches and harbours where people can go to during their dayoffs.
Besides its natural beauty, there's a rich array of accommodation options, ranging from the five star Grand Hotel on Eastbourne seafront to quaint B&Bs set amid beautiful Sussex countryside. East Sussex offers a rich array of culture, with art galleries such as the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings and the Towner Gallery in Eastbourne and an array of theatre and entertainment venues such as the De La Warr Pavillion in Bexhill, Congress and Deveonshire Park Theatres in Eastbourne and the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The combination of clinical practice and first-class academic connections means that medical professionals have a wide range of opportunities to develop their careers and achieve their aspirations. You will have access to leadership, teaching, educational and research opportunities for Continued Professional Develop (CPD).
If you are a new consultant you will receive mentoring and support from medical leads as well as access to a large peer group of enthusiastic and high-caliber Consultants.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCEM
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Emergency Medicine specialist to join a University Health Board that promotes equality and diversity. If you love a challenge, have a passion to help others or simple fancy a fresh start, then this Health Board has all the ingredients. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are looking to attain CESR. Middle Grade or Specialty Doctors in Emergency Medicine with over 4 years of experience would be suitable for this post.
Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed, especially those pursuing CESR.
WHAT IS HEALTH BOARD LIKE?
The Health Board is largest health organisation in Wales, that are developing an integrated health service which provides excellent care delivered in partnership with the public and other statutory and third sector organisations. The Health Board have a budget of £1.3 billion and a workforce of over 17,000 staff. Providing primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for the population of around 700,000 across of North Wales. They continuously develop their workforce so that it has the right skills and operates in a research-rich learning culture. Besides their three main hospital sites, they are also responsible for community hospitals, health centres, clinics, mental health units, community teams, GP practices and other NHS services provided by dentists, opticians and pharmacists. They plan to improve the health of the population, with particular focus upon the most vulnerable in our society.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Emergency Medicine Department was purposely built in 2014 and offers state- of-the-art facilities. There are approximately 58,000 attendances a year, of which 14,000 are under 18. The ED is co-located with the GP Out of Hours service and enjoys an excellent relationship with the service. Currently there are 4 substantive EM Consultants and 2 NHS locum Consultant appointments. There are no long-term agency locum Consultant staff.
The department provides 24-hour cover by a senior shop floor decision maker and the Tier 2 level is provided by a mixture of Specialty doctors and EPIC Clinical Fellows. Currently there are 5 EPIC Clinical Fellows and 13 Specialty Doctors, some of whom work less than full time for the ED. The junior tier currently has 12 doctors comprising a mixture of GPST trainees, Foundation doctors, and Clinical Fellows. Additionally, there are 4 Advanced Nurse Practitioners, and these contribute to the junior Tier 1. The minors service is provided by 7 ENP’s, and 2 dedicated ED Extended Scope Physiotherapists.
The post holder will be expected to contribute to quality improvement work in the ED, and support is available to ensure projects are sustainable and successful. The post holder will need to be familiar with modern models of Emergency Care in order to support the department in its goals of improving performance and patient safety.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH WALES?
North Wales has a vast national park, purpose built mountain biking trails, a breath taking coastal path, soaring zip wire, food festivals and world class sport and adventure around every corner. The North Wales is equipped with sport and leisure centres that provide opportunities for a wide variety of sporting, fitness and recreational activities. Not only does it have lots of activities for you, it also has a wide selection of private housing is available, both traditional and modern in towns, villages and rural settings.
For doctors with family, the educational standards are consistently high in both the primary and secondary sectors. There are several well established independent schools within North Wales and the surrounding area that cater for both day pupils and boarders. The regional University with its excellent scholastic reputation has a thriving student community.
You can say goodbye to heavy inner city commuter traffic, and enjoy a breath-taking commute across North Wales.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS HEALTH BOARD?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- MRCEM
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine