Working in the UK as a European Oncology Specialist
- October 03, 2023
Understanding the status of your qualifications when registering with the GMC is critical to finding the best registration route for you and streamlining your journey to the UK and working in the NHS.
The breadth of global postgraduate oncology qualifications can confuse overseas oncologists as to the status of their qualifications in the UK. This blog aims to simplify subject, covering the following topics:
- How do I register with the GMC as a European specialist?
- I am on the Specialist Register - what type of post can I be offered?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
GMC Registration for European Specialists
When applying for GMC registration, all doctors must provide evidence of sufficient skills and knowledge. For oncologists from certain European countries (those within the European Economic Area or EEA), there is a group of relevant European qualifications which are accepted as sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge to practise in the UK.
These are Primary Medical Qualifications and European Specialist qualifications which provide eligibility for Full and Specialist Registration respectively.
European Economic Area (EEA) Countries
These are the countries from which a relevant European qualification would be accepted by the GMC*:
|
Austria |
Germany |
Netherlands |
|
Belgium |
Greece |
Norway |
|
Bulgaria |
Hungary |
Poland |
|
Croatia |
Iceland |
Portugal |
|
Cyprus |
Ireland |
Romania |
|
Czech Republic |
Italy |
Slovakia |
|
Denmark |
Latvia |
Slovenia |
|
Estonia |
Lithuania |
Spain |
|
Luxembourg |
Sweden |
|
|
France |
Malta |
Switzerland |
*When determining the eligibility of your EEA qualification, it is important to check the given dates and evidence required by the GMC for acceptance.
EEA Primary Medical Qualifications
If your primary medical qualification was awarded by a medical school in an EEA country, it may be a relevant European qualification. Oncologists with an EEA PMQ are eligible for full GMC registration with licence to practise.
You can find out whether your PMQ is eligible and what qualifications and evidence you need to send to the GMC to support your application here or by selecting your country from the table above.
EEA Specialist Qualifications
If your specialist qualification was awarded after the completion of an EEA training programme, it may also be a relevant European qualification. Oncologists with an EEA specialist qualification are eligible for direct entry to the GMC’s Specialist Register.
You can find out whether your European Specialist Qualification is eligible by searching for oncology within this list and checking whether your country’s evidence is accepted (if your country’s field is blank for oncology, your qualification would not be accepted for Specialist Registration).
You can then check what qualifications and evidence you need to send to the GMC to support your application here or by selecting your country from the table above.
NHS Posts for European Oncologists on the Specialist Register
The NHS post you would be eligible for as a European oncologist would be dependent on your level of experience with your postgraduate qualifications taken into account.
If you are on the Specialist Register for clinical or medical oncology, you are eligible fo substantive consultant positions in the NHS - meaning you can be offered a permanent consultant contract to work in the NHS.
Without GMC Specialist Registration, you can still work as a locum consultant on a fixed-term contract, and attain Specialist Registration via the CESR Portfolio Pathway.
Oncology Consultants are in high demand in the UK, and thus command competitive rates of pay.
As a Consultant Oncologist, the pay you will earn can be broken down as follows:
- Basic salary for 40 hours per week or 10 PAs (programmed activities)
- Pay for additional hours worked
- 37% premium for night hours worked
- Weekend allowance for hours worked
- On-call allowance
There are also other wage premiums that may be offered.
You can find the latest pay scales for NHS Consultants across the UK here.
Please use these pay scales as a guide, but bear in mind that you may be eligible for a different rate of pay than stated, based on experience and/or demand. It is therefore worth checking what you may be entitled to with your IMG Consultant.
Sources
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/eea-countries
IMG Connect are here to help
We hope this helps to clear up any doubts around registering to work in the UK as an EEA oncologist and securing an NHS post.
Get in touch with our oncology team if you have any further questions regarding EEA entry to the NHS, CESR or oncology in the NHS more broadly.
Relevant Jobs
A leading NHS cancer center in Manchester is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Breast Oncology with an interest in advanced radiotherapy treatments in particular. Candidates can work as either a clinical or radiation oncologist. The Clinical Oncology Breast Disease Group comprises a team of 10 consultants, supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurse clinicians, clinical fellows, specialist trainees, pharmacists, and research nurses. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, though those with GMC Specialist Registration or FRCR 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
Whilst specialist registration is not required, it is a preferred status for those interested in staying longer term given the opportunity to turn the post into a substantive role. Whatever the qualifications or registration type, candidates should have significant experience in the provision of radiotherapy for breast oncology patients. The salary will range from £105k to £139k per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver comprehensive clinical services for Breast Oncology patients, including radiotherapy and systemic therapies.
- Participate actively in multidisciplinary team meetings, including remote attendance of the North Manchester General Hospital MDT.
- Contribute to the team’s robust research portfolio, including advanced radiotherapy and systemic therapy trials.
- Participate in the department’s on-call rota, with a 1:20 frequency, covering patient consultations and reviews.
LIFE IN MANCHESTER
Manchester, a thriving city in the North West of England, offers a mix of urban vibrancy and nearby rural tranquility. Popular areas include the city center for urban living and the nearby Cheshire countryside for more relaxed, family-oriented lifestyles. The region boasts excellent schools, extensive transport links including Manchester International Airport, and a wealth of cultural, sporting, and leisure activities. Manchester\'s industrial heritage has shaped the city into a hub of innovation and culture, renowned globally for its contributions to music, sports, and science.
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 and a license to practice with experience in Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Gynaecology and Upper GI Oncology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide a comprehensive Oncology service and expertise in the management of site specialist cancer services.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary teams to develop and support Oncology services.
- Supervise and manage junior medical staff, including supporting the service during colleagues\' leave.
- Undertake teaching, clinical audit, and research, contributing to local and national postgraduate education.
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is based in the North West of England, with the closest urban areas offering a range of living options from city life to more rural surroundings.
The region boasts excellent schools and transport links, with trains connecting to major UK cities, and plenty of leisure activities for adults and families, including access to outdoor activities and historic landmarks.
The North West has significant historical importance and features stunning landscapes, making it a desirable location 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
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 to 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
We are currently looking for an experienced Clinical Oncologist, who works with both chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments for a large acute hospital in the Midlands, England.
You\'d be joining a team of 8 clinical and 2 medical oncology consultants at the modern Oncology Centre (opened in mid 2010\'s), to help support and develop site-specific services in outpatient and chemotherapy as part of the development of the centre.
There are 3 Elekta LINACS with VMAT and IGRT, using Mosaiq and Raystation for RT planning on site, along with 35 chemo day chairs used across 3 hospitals under this NHS trust.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- FRCR Clinical Oncology or equivalent
- Excellent english language skills
- Extensive experience as a consultant oncologist (UK or overseas experience)
LENGTH OF CONTRACT:
12 - 24 months fixed term (subject to be renewed)
Benefits:
- Attractive salary and relocation package
- Training and development opportunities
- CESR support for those eligible
- Tier 2 Health and Care Visa (sponsorship for the whole family)
- Guidance regarding the CV and full interview preparation
- Assistance regarding the GMC registration, visa, accommodation and transportation by an experienced onboarding specialist
- Complete IMG Relocation service from start to finish of process
GRADE:
Locum Consultant
Specialty & Special Interests:
Clinical Oncology with primary interest in Gynaecological and Upper GI cancers
This is a high performing and supportive department for overseas doctors new to the NHS, or UK-based doctors looking to further careers in the UK, and a great opportunity for any overseas oncologists looking for CESR support and great career development in a beautiful part of England, filled with sandy beaches and offering vibrant city living.
What is the Welsh Health Board like?
The Health Board are one of the biggest healthcare groups in the UK, providing primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for the population of around 390,000. They have a budget of around £1bn and employ approximately 12,500 staff. Besides their three major hospital sites, they are also responsible for community hospitals, health centres, clinics, mental health units, community teams, GP practices and other services provided by dentists, opticians and pharmacists. Their mission is to improve the health, wealth and wellbeing of the people of Wales and the rest of the world.
What is the Oncology Department like?
This Cancer Centre provides a high degree of specialisation for all the major cancers. It has one dedicated ward of 30 beds (with scope to increase to 36 beds at periods of high demand) for both oncology and haematology patients, together with a chemotherapy and haematology day unit, and an aseptic unit on site. There are also two laminar flow rooms for patients requiring bone marrow/stem cell transplantation and one dedicated room for radioactive isotope therapy.
There is a state of the art telemedicine facility allowing regular multi-professional meetings between oncologists, physicians, surgeons and AHPs in Wales. The system has the capacity to transmit and view both high quality radiological images and histopathological slides.
The staff are highly experienced, consisting of nurses, radiographers, research officers and admin staff. The new consultant will be joining a friendly and forward-thinking consultant team of clinical and medical oncologists who are committed to delivering highest standards of cancer care, alongside a large team of other clinical and non-clinical professionals.
What Career Development and Opportunities are available?
The Cancer Centre is heavily involved in training which takes place at all levels from undergraduate lectures and clinical teaching, through to Foundation and Core Medical trainee clinical and educational supervision, and higher specialist training. They will also provide excellent CESR support.
Life in South Wales
Based in South Wales, the area is fast becoming one of the most popular places to live in the UK. This waterfront location is actually Wales’s second most populated city and county, offering all the benefits and amenities of a built-up urban environment, alongside a 5 mile stretch of a pristine, sandy coastline.
The city is home to multiple live music venues, showcasing everything from small gigs to orchestral performances. Annually, the city hosts a number of different festivals, attracting artists from across Wales and the UK. Today, new regeneration is planned which will only increase its popularity, amenities, and modernity. The city is experiencing a period of development and a resurgence of new business and investment, with the city council focusing on creating a culture of creativity and an emphasis on attracting tech led businesses.
The area also has good travel links. It is an easy drive to Port Talbot and Cardiff and you can get to London via the M4, and around Wales on the A48. There are also regular trains to Cardiff, Newport and London. For international and domestic flights, Cardiff Airport is just 44 miles away.
Am I eligible for this role?
EEA candidates:
• Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Medical Oncology
• Extensive experience in AOS/Melanoma oncology
Non-EEA candidates:
• MRCP
• Extensive experience in AOS/Melanoma oncology
UK-based candidates:
• Extensive experience in AOS/Melanoma oncology
• Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Medical Oncology
This is a great job for any experienced overseas Medical Oncologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.
This is a high performing and friendly department for overseas doctors new to the NHS, or UK-based doctors looking to further careers in the UK, and a great opportunity for any overseas consultant oncologists looking for CESR support and great career development in a beautiful part of England.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust is the first NHS Trust on the English mainland to provide community, mental health and acute hospital services. It was formed from the merger of two trusts on the 1st April 2020. Now, they are preparing to merge with another trust so that they are better able to support the health of all the people in the area.
The trust provides a range of services from 13 community hospitals including outpatient and diagnostic services, 190 inpatient beds and seven Minor Injuries Units. They also provide specialist mental health services, healthcare for adults with learning disabilities, medical and surgical care, maternity services and cancer treatment services. The trust\'s facilities for the treatment of cancer have undergone a major expansion, culminating in the opening of the Cancer Centre in May 2009.
What is the Oncology Department like?
The Oncology Department provides Clinical and Medical Oncology inpatient and outpatient services as well as radiotherapy and chemotherapy to all common tumour sites. The new appointee will be joining an ambitious team of 12 Consultant Oncologists (8 Clinical & 4 Medical), 1 Associate Specialist (Medical Oncology), 3 Speciality Doctors, and a rotation of junior doctors who cover the inpatient ward. There are also two Clinical Oncology ST3 doctors. It is a research orientated department with a dedicated clinical trials team and are one of the highest recruiters within the South West and nationally for a number of trials.
The new consultant will be working within the Cancer Centre which provides cancer care to a population of approximately 500,000. It has received a number of accolades since opening in 2009 for the high quality care delivered. These include CHKS ISO 9001 accreditation, Macmillan Quality Environment Mark score of 5 (out of 5) on all principles and in the 2018 National Cancer Patient Experience Survey, the Beacon Centre was ranked third overall which is an excellent reflection of the patient centred care delivered.
What Career Development and Opportunities are available?
There is real opportunity to progress through CESR at pace at this trust, with a strong desire for newly-qualified consultants to develop their specialty areas of interest and undertake in various cancer trials and research projects where possible. Research is encouraged here, particularly when this is appropriate to professional development and to the service development of the department. Opportunities are available with applications for funding co-ordinated by the Trusts Medical Directors and clinical trial recruitment to International, National and Regional trials is active in all tumour sites. This trust was also rated as an area of Outstanding Practice by CQC (2016), and with the highest GMC score in the South West for training.
Life in the area:
This area has diverse shopping, restaurants, and regularly hosts international music and sporting fixtures. It is located between various areas of outstanding natural beauty, featuring national hotspots for cycling, surfing, and climbing. There’s plenty to keep you occupied alongside the abundance of music festivals and local traditions. The area is in close proximity to both the beaches of North Devon and Cornwall, while also being less than two hours from the city of London.
It also offers some of the best schools in the country. Ranging from public institutions to award winning state schools with one being ranked in the top 10 of A-level providers nationally for the last eight years.
Am I eligible for this role?
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCR (Clinical Oncology)
EEA candidates:
- Recognised European Qualifications
UK candidates:
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT