NHS CESR Applications for Clinical Radiologists
- April 10, 2020
Most overseas radiologists coming to the UK want to attain their CESR in Radiology.
In this article we look at the specialty specific guidance on evidence required for entry onto the Specialist Register for Clinical Radiology. This is entry to the specialist registration with a Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration or CESR.
What is CESR in Clinical Radiology in the NHS?
As a Clinical Radiology specialist, attaining CESR will mean you are qualified to practice at consultant level in the NHS in Clinical Radiology. Have a read through our CESR articles found in the IMG Library to understand a little more.
Do I need FRCR to attain CESR in Clinical Radiology?
Not necessarily. Whilst it is a benefit to attain FRCR, and you may have already attained MRCP or FRCR as your route to GMC registration, you do not necessarily require FRCR to attain CESR in Clinical Radiology. Any doctor wishing to attain Specialist Registration via the CCT route must attain FRCR.
What is the indicative period of training for a CCT in Clinical Radiology?
The indicative period of training for a CCT in Clinical Radiology is five years it is highly unlikely that you would achieve the competencies required for a CCT in a shorter period of time. This training consists of the following:
- 3 years in Core Training AND
- 2 years in Higher Training
During Higher Training, competence is expected to be achieved at Level 1 or Level 2 which indicates the greater degree of expertise to be achieved by those intending to practice in one or more special interest areas. CESR applicants must demonstrate that they have achieved the competencies in each of these areas.
You should refer to the Clinical Radiology Curriculum documentation before you make your application to ensure that you can demonstrate the required competencies.
Submitting Evidence:
Do not submit original documents – this is very important.
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). It is very important that you read an explanation of how to do this in the GMC’s important notice about evidence.
Please note you will also need to submit translations of any documents that are not in English and you must ensure the translations you submit meet the GMC translation requirements.
How much evidence should you submit?
The GMC recognises that doctors will often not have all the evidence required for a complete CESR application, often many doctors will start their application and delay starting their application until they are able to gather all the evidence.
The evidence must cover the knowledge, skills and qualifications to demonstrate the required competencies in all areas of the Clinical Radiology Curriculum. If evidence is missing from any one area of the curriculum, then the application will fail.
If you have a piece of evidence that is relevant to more than one domain, do not include multiple copies in your bundle. Instead include one copy and list it in your evidence list under each relevant area, stating that the document is located elsewhere.
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 – make sure you are reading the latest version on the GMC website – here.
It is important to note that evidence that is more than five years old will be given less weight than more recent evidence, so you may not need to include it. As a general guide, an application for CESR could expect to see around 800-1000 pages of evidence.
Types of Evidence:
The types of evidence are divided into four different domains, the GMC recommends that you apportion the evidence provided as per the pie chart below:
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Please note, you cannot compensate for evidence lacking in one area by providing more evidence in another area.
Key Evidence Requirements – advice from the FRCR’s Equivalence Committee:
- Evidence must demonstrate that you have achieved ALL the requirements and competencies as set down in the relevant CCT curriculum.
- Where you have worked in a specialised area for a substantial period of time, evidence will be required to the following effect:
- That at one stage in your career you achieved the requirements and competencies of the relevant specialty curriculum
- These skills have been maintained within the last five years
- Your current specialised practice allows you to meet all of the domains above
- You must submit evidence to demonstrate that you can practise competently and independently across the breadth of the CCT curriculum
Key Evidence Requirements – Summarised:
In summary you are expected to demonstrate competence across the core requirements of the radiology specific content of the curriculum:
breast, cardiac, emergency radiology, gastro-intestinal, general and non-vascular intervention, head and neck, moledcular imaging, musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, oncological, paediatric imaging, radionuclide radiology, thoracic, uro-gynaecological and vascular radiology, in the relevant technique-based areas (plain film including mammography, CT, US, MRI, nonvascular interventional procedures, fluoroscopy)
You are also expected to demonstrate the equivalent Level 1 and/or Level 2 competencies required for Higher training, in one or more areas of special interests.
Key Documents to submit with your application:
Take a look at the GMC’s SGPC – SSG document to affirm the information above and to understand the key documents recommended by the Royal College of Radiology’s Equivalence Committee.
Make sure to anonymise your evidence:
It is very important to anonymise your evidence before submitting it to the GMC. You must remove the following:
- All patient identifying details
- Details of patients’ relatives
- Details of colleagues that you have assessed, written a reference for, or who have been involved in a complaint you have submitted. This includes:
- names (first and last)
- addresses
- contact details such as phone numbers or email addresses
- NHS numbers & other individual patient numbers
- GMC numbers
In Summary:
If you have any questions or uncertainties, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the IMG Connect team. However, your official point of reference for any queries should the GMC – they can answer and provide the most updated information on CESR applications for overseas Radiologists looking to work as NHS Consultants in Clinical Radiology.
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Relevant Jobs
A leading NHS hospital in the UK is looking for a Consultant Breast Radiologist with an interest in breast imaging and intervention. The Radiology department consists of a team of experienced breast radiologists and is supported by a multidisciplinary medical team. This role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, with preference for those holding a European Specialist or FRCR qualification.
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 must have FRCR qualification and completed specialist training in Radiology, with subspecialty training in breast imaging. Clinical experience in breast radiology, interventional procedures, and pre-operative localisation is essential. The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Work independently in symptomatic one-stop clinics, breast screening, and assessment clinics, with a minimum of two one-stop clinics and one assessment clinic per week.
Perform ultrasound-guided and stereotactic-guided biopsies of the breast and axilla (stereotactic training can be provided if required).
Report on symptomatic and surveillance mammography, breast MRI, and support pre-operative localisation for surgical planning.
Contribute to the bi-weekly breast MDT, training of junior doctors, and general radiology reporting (optional on-call duties available).
LIFE IN THE UK
The hospital is based in a well-connected UK city, offering a mix of urban and rural living. Professionals can choose between vibrant city living or quieter countryside options, both with excellent amenities.
The area has top-rated schools, direct train links to London, and an international airport. It offers a wide range of leisure activities, including cultural festivals, outdoor sports, and a thriving social scene.
The region has historical significance, playing a key role in British maritime history and remaining a hub for medical innovation and research.
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
- 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
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Candidates must hold FRCR or equivalent, full GMC registration, and Radiology training
- Three years of Radiology speciality training is required for this role, and anyone with a experience in Vascular and Non-Vascular IR should apply.
- The salary will be between £93,666 – £126,281 per annum dependent on experience or grade.
- Perform a wide range of vascular and non-vascular interventional radiology procedures, including aneurysm repair, peripheral and visceral revascularisation, catheter-assisted thrombolysis, and embolisation procedures.
- Provide on-call interventional radiology services as part of a regional network rota, covering vascular and non-vascular cases.
- Contribute to diagnostic imaging and reporting, as well as participation in vascular and aortic aneurysm MDTs, IR clinics, and general radiology reporting.
- Support the teaching and training of junior doctors, radiographers, and medical students, with opportunities for research and development.
Located in a scenic region of South West England, this hospital serves both urban and rural communities. Candidates can choose to live in a bustling market town with easy access to major cities or opt for a more peaceful setting in the countryside, surrounded by national parks and coastal areas. The region offers excellent schools, strong transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities including hiking, cycling, and watersports.
Historically, this area is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and vibrant local traditions, making it an attractive place to live and work.
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
- 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
A private diagnostic imaging clinic in a major Canadian city is looking for a Radiologist with an interest in specialized imaging services. The radiology team comprises a motivated group of professionals, including radiologists, Ultrasound Technologists, and Medical Radiation Technologists. This radiology job is open to both international applications and Canada-based doctors, though those with CCT from the UK, Ireland, or qualifications recognised by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC) are most encouraged to apply.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A fellowship level qualification in Diagnostic Radiology from the Australasia region, South Africa, Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ireland, UK, and the USA is required for this role, and anyone with an interest in specialized imaging services such as Breast Imaging, MSK Ultrasound, or Image-Guided Pain Management should apply. Earning potential of between $600,000 and $800,000 is available, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Ensure accurate and timely production of diagnostic imaging reports.
- Supervise and guide diagnostic imaging personnel during scheduled hours.
- Maintain effective communication with patients and other physicians to ensure proper care.
- Monitor and report equipment malfunctions and inventory shortages.
LIFE IN THIS REGION
This major Canadian city offers a blend of urban and suburban living options, with lively downtown areas and peaceful neighborhoods for families. The region provides excellent schools, reliable transport links, and an array of leisure activities for adults and families alike. Known for its cultural diversity and natural beauty, this area is a significant hub for commerce and education in Canada.
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 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 sponsorship and visa application support, if applicable.
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Locum Consultant Interventional Radiologist has arisen at an excellent NHS Foundation Trust. This role offers an exciting chance to develop your medical career within the UK, working in a progressive and dynamic healthcare environment. The position involves delivering a range of interventional radiology services, including vascular and non-vascular procedures. You will be joining a highly skilled team and working alongside radiographers, nurses, and surgeons to provide the best possible care to patients. The Trust is committed to offering a supportive environment for international medical graduates (IMGs), and applications from overseas doctors are welcomed.
This NHS job provides full support for the CESR Portfolio Pathway, enabling you to achieve your Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration. Whether you are looking to further develop your expertise in interventional radiology or explore sub-specialist interests, this role offers a fantastic platform for professional growth. With a focus on both patient care and career development, this is an excellent opportunity to advance your career within the NHS.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Foundation Trust is a leading healthcare provider known for its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. Serving a population of over 657,000 people, the Trust offers a wide range of medical specialties, including vascular surgery, neonatal intensive care, and stroke services. Formed through a merger in 2020, the Trust now operates across multiple sites and has quickly established itself as a center of excellence in the region. The Trust’s state-of-the-art facilities include cutting-edge imaging and diagnostic equipment, allowing staff to provide advanced medical care to a diverse patient population. The Trust is also at the forefront of medical innovation, having introduced robotic surgery and other advanced treatment modalities in recent years. With over 9,000 staff members, the Trust places a strong emphasis on continuous professional development, ensuring all healthcare professionals have access to the latest training and education opportunities. The Trust\'s dedication to both patient care and staff development makes it an attractive employer for UK-based and international doctors?.
The Radiology Department & Team
The Radiology Department at this NHS Foundation Trust offers a comprehensive imaging service that supports both emergency and elective care. With a dedicated team of consultants, radiographers, and support staff, the department performs over 172,000 imaging examinations each year, including CT, MRI, and ultrasound scans. As a Locum Consultant Interventional Radiologist, you will be responsible for delivering a range of procedures, including biopsies, drainages, and complex hepatobiliary interventions. The department also plays a key role in supporting multidisciplinary team meetings, working closely with other specialties such as vascular surgery, gastroenterology, and urology to ensure seamless patient care.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Radiology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to professional development, offering opportunities to engage in research and teaching, ensuring you stay at the cutting edge of medical practice.
Location
This position is based in a thriving region in the UK, known for its balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. The area offers excellent transport links, making it an ideal choice for professionals and their families. The region also boasts affordable living, top-tier schools, and a wide array of recreational activities, making it a highly desirable location for both UK-based and international candidates.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
UK based applicants:
- Consultant experience in Interventional Radiology
- Or within 6 months of completing CESR or CCT in Radiology
- Consultant experience in Radiology
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Radiology
- FRCR
- Consultant experience in Interventional Radiology
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Foundation Trust, based in Manchester, is one of Europe’s leading cancer centres, treating over 60,000 patients annually. Known for its advanced cancer care, the Trust provides a national service, with approximately 25% of its patients referred from across the UK. It is renowned for cutting-edge technologies, including the MR-linac and proton beam therapy. This NHS Trust is also a leader in research, partnering with the Manchester Cancer Research Centre and has received multiple \'Outstanding\' ratings by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for its innovation and patient care excellence.
What is the department & team like?
The Radiology department plays a vital role in cancer care, being one of the largest radiotherapy providers in Europe. It operates 3 CT and 4 MR scanners and offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic services, performing around 60,000 examinations annually. These services include CT, MR, plain film, ultrasound, interventional radiology, and nuclear medicine, with the department also providing reports for the regional PET-CT service. The team, comprising 25 consultants, fellows, radiographers, and support staff, closely collaborates with oncological and surgical teams and supports multidisciplinary meetings. Research is central to the department, contributing significantly to clinical trials.
The post-holder will join this team to deliver high-quality cancer imaging, including cross-sectional body imaging, MR, CT, and PET-CT.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers extensive training and accreditation within Radiology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support. You will have access to specialty training, with opportunities to develop sub-specialist interests and contribute to ongoing research within the Trust.
What is the area like?
This NHS job is based in a highly desirable region in the UK, known for its affordability, excellent schools, and quality of life. The area offers easy access to nature and cultural attractions, making it a great choice for international professionals and their families.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Radiology
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
- FRCR
- Experience in Stroke Medicine