CESR Applications for Medical Oncologists

  • November 23, 2022
 

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the specific guidance on NHS applications for entry onto the Specialist Register through the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) for medical oncologists. 

We’ll cover the eligibility criteria, application process, and most importantly the required evidence, along with some other topics, summarised in the headings below: 

Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for. 

An Introduction to CESR

CESR, or the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration, is the route to specialist registration for doctors who have not completed a GMC-approved training programme, but can demonstrate that their specialist training, qualifications and experience are equivalent to the requirements for the award of the CCT in the UK.  

CESR holders can be appointed to substantive (or permanent) consultant positions in the NHS. As a medical oncologist, attaining specialist registration will mean you are qualified to practice independently as a consultant in the NHS. 

Oncologists must prove to the GMC that their specialist training or specialist qualifications, when considered together, are equivalent to a CCT in the specialty in question.  

In order to be eligible for CESR, doctors should have undertaken a minimum of 6 months training or obtained a specialist qualification and acquired specialist medical experience or knowledge as a medical oncologist within a non-training post. 

Overseas doctors do not require CESR before moving to the UK to work in the NHS. Often, experienced oncologists will secure a post in the UK, and work towards CESR whilst in post.  

MRCP for Specialist Registration

Whilst it is always beneficial to complete MRCP (UK), particularly for doctors who have trained outside the UK or the EEA, overseas doctors looking to join the Specialist Register do not need to have completed the Royal College postgraduate exams. 

The standard test of knowledge in the Medical Oncology curriculum is the MRCP (UK) exams, so passing these exams confirms the attainment of the competencies of the core curriculum. 

MRCP (UK) is only a requirement for doctors looking to attain Specialist Registration via the CCT or CESR-CP route. 

The structure of medical oncology training in the UK is an indicative two years in Core Medical Training or Acute Care Common Stem (ACCS), followed by an indicative four years of training in Medical Oncology. Therefore, applicants need to demonstrate the appropriate level of acute medicine expertise as well as competencies in medical oncology. 

You can read more about the evidence required in the specialty specific guidance here

CESR Equivalence Process

Equivalence refers to the process of assessing an overseas applicant’s training and experience against the current medical oncology training programme requirements, in order to be awarded CESR. 

The equivalence process involves submitting a written body of evidence to the GMC, consisting of: 

  • training and/or competence; AND 
  • skills and knowledge 

The Royal College of Physicians will assess each application against the relevant curriculum before providing a recommendation to the GMC, who will then make a decision. 

Please note that Equivalence procedures are the responsibility of the GMC. Applications are made through their Certification Department and initial enquiries should be directed there. 

Evidence Requirements for CESR in Medical Oncology

Skills & Experience: The evidence provided for a CESR application in oncology must cover the knowledge, skills and qualifications to demonstrate the required competencies in all areas of the Medical Oncology curriculum. If evidence is missing from any area of the curriculum, the application will fail. 

Primary Evidence: To demonstrate that you can do what is required by the curriculum, you need to submit primary evidence of your clinical practice which shows how you work on a day-to-day basis: letters, reports, assessments etc. References, retrospective case summaries, and reflective notes can all be used in a CESR application, but by themselves they are not sufficient. 

Audit & Governance: You are required to submit evidence of your active leadership in audit, including evidence that you have completed at least one audit cycle 

Currency of Evidence: Your evaluators will be looking for evidence of current competency, generally defined as within the last five years. If you have completed training before this point, it is crucial that you provide evidence of maintaining competency across the whole area of the curriculum.  

The GMC asks that only evidence that is strictly relevant is sent as it will help them to process the application quicker. The guidance on compiling your evidence will help you to decide what is relevant and what is not – you can find this on the GMC website here

As a general guide, the GMC usually expects to see about 800 - 1000 pages of evidence, divided into four different domains, reflecting those of Good Medical Practice. The GMC recommends that you apportion the evidence provided as shown below: 

  • Domain 1 – Knowledge, skills and performance 
  • Domain 2 – Safety and quality 
  • Domain 3 – Communication, partnership and teamwork 
  • Domain 4 – Maintaining trust 

Please note, you cannot compensate for evidence lacking in one area by providing more evidence in another area. 

The full list of evidence required for each domain can be found on the GMC website here

Gathering Evidence for a CESR Application

Domain 1 – Knowledge, skills and performance 

Qualifications 

  • Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) 
  • Specialist medical qualification(s) 
  • Curriculum or syllabus (if undertaken outside the UK) 
  • Specialist registration outside the UK 
  • Honours and prizes 
  • Other relevant qualifications 

Assessments and appraisals

  • Appraisals and assessments 
  • RITAs, ARCPs and training assessments 
  • 360˚ and multi-source feedback 
  • Awards and discretionary points letters 
  • Personal development plans (PDP) 

Logbooks, records of daily clinical practice and portfolios

  • Logbooks 
  • Consolidation, cumulative data sheets, summary lists and annual caseload statistics 
  • Medical reports 
  • Case histories 
  • Referral letters discussing patient handling 
  • Patient lists 
  • Departmental (or trust) workload statistics and annual caseload statistics 
  • Rotas, timetables and job plans 
  • Courses relevant to curriculum 
  • Portfolios (electronic or revalidation) 

Details of posts and duties (including both training and experience posts)

  • Employment letters and contracts of employment 
  • Job descriptions 
  • Job plans 

Research, publications and presentations

  • Research papers, grants, patent designs 
  • Publications within specialty field 
  • Presentations, poster presentations 

CPD and CME

  • CPD record certificates, certificates of attendance, workshops and at local, national and international meetings or conferences 
  • CPD registration points from UK Medical Royal College (or equivalent body overseas) 
  • Membership of professional bodies and organisations 
  • Teaching timetables 
  • Lectures 
  • Feedback or evaluation forms from those taught 
  • Letters from colleagues 
  • Attendance at teaching or appraisal courses 
  • Participation in assessment or appraisal and appointments processes 

Domain 2 – Safety and quality

Participation in audit, service improvement

  • Audits undertaken by applicant 
  • Reflective diaries 
  • Service improvement and clinical governance meetings 

Safety

  • Health and safety 

Domains 3 - Communication, partnership and teamwork

Communication

  • Colleagues 
  • Patients 

Partnership and teamwork

  • Working in multidisciplinary teams 
  • Management and leadership experience 
  • Chairing meetings and leading projects 

Domain 4 – Maintaining trust 

Acting with honesty and integrity

  • Honest and integrity 
  • Equality and human rights (including disability, human rights, race, religion and ethnicity awareness and equal opportunities) 
  • Data protection 

Relationships with patients

  • Testimonials and letters from colleagues 
  • Thank you letters, cards from colleagues and patients 
  • Complaints and responses to complaints 

For more guidance on the different types of evidence, see the specialty specific guidance from the GMC for medical oncology

Validating Evidence

Original documents which are on headed paper with a hospital stamp and original signatures do not need additional validation.  

All photocopied evidence should contain a hospital stamp on every page of each document, the validator’s name (printed and in full), job title (printed and in full) and original signature. 

Application Submission

All CESR applications are submitted online via GMC Online and if you have not already created an account, you can find a guide on how to do so here

Electronic evidence is required for each of the different evidence sections of the CESR application. Once started, the online application remains open for 12 months, meaning that it can be used as a portfolio to gather evidence against each of the different sections. 

Your electronic evidence can be in any of the following formats: 

  • .doc 
  • .pdf 
  • .ppt 
  • .xls 

Formats outside of these are unlikely to be accepted. 

The Online Application

You will be required to complete the following sections once you begin your application: 

  • Specialty details 
  • Qualification details and professional experience 
  • Details of your referees 
  • Registration and licensing history 
  • Evidence summary 
  • Details of your verifiers 
  • Final declaration and payment 

Additional Evidence 

Once an Adviser on the Specialist Applications Team has reviewed your initial evidence, they will provide you with information on:  

  • What evidence they’ve accepted  
  • What evidence they’re unable to accept (including the reasons for this)  
  • Advice and guidance on how your application could be strengthened  

You’ll have up to 60 days to provide additional documentary evidence in support of your application (30 days if you’ve submitted a Review application). 

For further information about the online application process, see the GMC’s User Guide

How long does it take to complete?

As there is a substantial amount of evidence to gather for a CESR application, the process of preparing all the necessary documentation and applying for CESR can take even longer than this, and a typical candidate will usually set out to complete this within 1 – 3 years. 

It is worth noting that more senior oncologists, such as consultants, are more likely to have achieved all the competences outlined in the curriculum. 

The indicative period of training for a CCT in medical oncology is six years, so it is highly unlikely that you would achieve the competencies required for a CCT in a shorter period of time. Therefore, CESR is not suitable for more junior oncologists. 

Cost of CESR Applications

All oncologists applying for Specialist Registration must pay a fee. For CESR, this fee is £1,727. 

For CESR-CP and CCT, the cost is £452. 

How long does it take to receive a decision?

The GMC estimate that it can take between six and eight months to receive a decision, from the date you submit your CESR application. 

#IMG Tips

  1. Research/think about the types of evidence you will need and begin to gather your evidence well in advance of making your application.  
  2. Gather evidence prospectively – this is much easier than retrospectively trying to pull together the evidence under additional pressures. 
  3. Make sure that your evidence is of the highest possible quality and is current – you will be assessed against the most recent curriculum.  
  4. Ensure that the evidence you collect demonstrates your competence across the whole of the Medical Oncology curriculum, not just your sub-specialty.    
  5. Remember to refer to the most up-to-date Medical Oncology CCT Curriculum and Specialty Specific Guidance for the evidence requirements in your specialty.  
  6. Create a CESR ‘to-do list’ with sections under the GMC’s 4 domain headings – organise your evidence directly into these sections to manage your progress. 
  7. Do not submit original documents – all your copies, other than qualifications you’re getting authenticated must be accompanied by a proformas signed by the person who is attesting to the validity and accuracy of your evidence (your verifier). 
  8. Ask an IMG Connect recruitment specialist about NHS oncology posts with CESR support. These are not always advertised by a Trust, but we can help you find a role which aligns well with your career goals in the NHS. 
  9. Join the online community - join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded MRCP aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters.

In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our MRCP crash courses, completely free to all doctors.

You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.

Sources

https://www.jrcptb.org.uk/certificate-eligibility-specialist-registration  

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/registration-applications/specialist-application-guides/specialist-registration-cesr-or-cegpr 

https://www.gmc-uk.org/-/media/documents/sat---ssg---medical-oncology---dc2310_pdf-48455474.pdf 


Getting started 

Attaining Specialist Registration through the CESR pathway can be a long but very rewarding process. Look at our introduction to CESR for medical oncologists for a full overview. 

If you have any further questions about Specialist Registration, your route to the UK, or would like guidance in finding NHS posts which offer CESR support, please get in touch with us here.  

Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS: 

            

 

Relevant Jobs

£59,175 - £95,400

An NHS Trust in the South West of England is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Oncology with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants, senior nursing staff, and a multidisciplinary team, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP/MRCPath are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

At least four years of postgraduate training, including two years in a relevant specialty, and full GMC registration are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Acute Oncology and Chemotherapy Services should apply. The salary will be between £59,175 and £95,400 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide continuity of care for patients being treated in the Oncology Day Unit and supervise patients admitted to medical wards with chemotherapy-related side effects.
  • Participate in Acute Oncology Service (AOS) and multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings, liaising with consultants and specialist teams.
  • Supervise chemotherapy administration, assess patients prior to treatment, and follow up on recently discharged patients.
  • Support clinical trials by assisting in patient recruitment and follow-up.

LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST OF ENGLAND

This Trust is based in a lively city in the South West, offering a mix of urban and coastal living, with popular residential areas including city suburbs and the countryside. The region provides excellent schools, strong transport links across the UK, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities for professionals and families. The city has played a crucial role in British maritime and engineering history and continues to be a hub for innovation and creativity.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
£96,990 - £107,155

An NHS Trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

10 years of oncology experience in a middle-grade role and full GMC registration are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 and £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide specialist Clinical Oncology input, including expertise in radiotherapy and Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT).
  • Support site-specific MDTs (Multidisciplinary Teams) in either Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers or Lung and thoracic malignancies.
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LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

This Trust is located in a major city in the West Midlands, offering easy access to both vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural locations. Popular residential areas nearby include a mix of city living and countryside retreats. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links to major UK cities, and a range of cultural, shopping, and leisure options. Historically, this area has played a vital role in Britain\'s industrial and automotive history and is home to a number of significant landmarks.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
£96,990 - £107,155 N/A

An NHS Trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

10 years of oncology experience in a middle-grade role and full GMC registration are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Neuro-Oncology and Lower GI should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 and £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide specialist Clinical Oncology input, including expertise in radiotherapy and Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT).
  • Support site-specific MDTs (Multidisciplinary Teams) in Neuro-Oncology and Lower-GI cancers.
  • Deliver outpatient and inpatient care, including radiotherapy planning and chemotherapy prescribing.
  • Contribute to the Acute Oncology Service and provide ward inpatient care.

LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

This Trust is located in a major city in the West Midlands, offering easy access to both vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural locations. Popular residential areas nearby include a mix of city living and countryside retreats. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links to major UK cities, and a range of cultural, shopping, and leisure options. Historically, this area has played a vital role in Britain\'s industrial and automotive history and is home to a number of significant landmarks.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
105,504- 139,882
An NHS Trust in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Lower Gastrointestinal & Gynaecological cancers . The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of specialty doctors and clinical fellows. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR/MRCP are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full GMC registration, FRCR/MRCP (or equivalent), and oncology experience at SpR or equivalent level are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Gynaecological cancers and dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide high-quality oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and provide leadership for tumour site specialisations.
Supervise and mentor junior medical staff and actively contribute to teaching and research initiatives.
Engage in clinical governance and audit activities to ensure high standards of patient care.

LIFE IN KENT

Kent, known as \"The Garden of England,\" offers a mix of lively urban areas and tranquil rural settings. Canterbury is a vibrant city with a rich history and excellent amenities, while the surrounding countryside provides peaceful rural living options. The region boasts excellent schools, strong transport links to London and the continent, and a variety of leisure activities including historic landmarks, coastal attractions, and cultural festivals. Kent\'s historical significance as a cornerstone of England\'s heritage adds to its charm.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?*

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

-CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
-Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
-At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
-Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
-Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:
-Document gathering and checking.
-COS and visa application support if applicable.
-Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
-Travel arrangements.
-Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.



 
105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in London is looking for a Locum Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in GI and Lung malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of 16 Consultant Oncologists and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurses, pharmacists, and radiographers. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration, MRCP (or equivalent), and substantial experience in Medical Oncology. Interest in Lung  and GI malignancies is essential. The salary will be between £105,504- £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide specialist care for Breast and Lower GI cancer patients, including outpatient and radiotherapy services.
  • Actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for Lung and GI malignancies.
  • Engage in research, clinical audits, and teaching activities to support professional development.
  • Contribute to the Acute Oncology Service (AOS) and provide clinical supervision for junior medical staff.

LIFE IN LONDON

London offers a dynamic and diverse environment with a mix of bustling urban areas and quieter suburban neighborhoods. It provides access to world-class educational institutions, excellent transport links, and a wide range of cultural, leisure, and historical attractions. London’s rich history and multicultural vibrancy make it an ideal location for both professional development and personal fulfillment.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
  • At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and visa application support if applicable.
  • Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements.
  • Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

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