So you want to be a Clinical Geneticist...
Clinical Geneticists deal with a broad range of
disorders, which is reflected in the wide variety of
backgrounds and disciplines from which trainees are
recruited. Entry to higher medical training in Clinical
Genetics is at SpR level. Preferably three years
(minimum two) general professional training, ideally
involving both adult and paediatric medicine, is
desirable. However, entry from other specialties such as
obstetrics and gynaecology, surgery, general practice
and psychiatry is welcomed. MRCP, MRCPCH, MRCGP or
equivalent postgraduate qualification is mandatory.
Whilst some trainees enter the specialty having already
completed an MD or PhD, many others take time out of their training
programme to undertake a research degree.
Opportunities exist within the specialty for Flexible
Training. Your local Deanery can provide information on the possibilities within
your area.
After obtaining a CCT in Clinical Genetics, it is increasingly possible
to sub-specialise in an aspect of Clinical Genetics, e.g. Cancer Genetics.
Full details of current entry requirements are available from the
JRCPTB. Due to the ongoing changes in postgraduate medical training, prospective applicants are advised to contact
JRCPTB
for the latest requirements.
Doctors who meet the entry requirements are able to
compete for Specialist Registrar (SpR) posts, which are
advertised in the medical press (usually in the
BMJ). Those who successfully obtain a post must
complete a training lasting at least 4 years (often
longer, as many people take extra time for research),
based on the
published curriculum for Clinical Genetics.
Those choosing Flexible Training will have their
training programme individually calculated according to time spent within
the specialty.
The progress of training is formally monitored in two ways, and recorded
in a
log book (also called the 'Grey Book').
Monitoring is conducted by:
1. Informal appraisals, held twice a year with
educational supervisor.
2. Formal annual assessments (recorded in a RITA).
Upon successful completion of training, the
JRCPTB
will award a CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) which
allows the doctor's name to be added to the Specialist Register, and for
them to apply for consultant posts within their specialty.
|
