For many international medical graduates (IMGs), securing a clinical attachment or observership is an important first step towards working in the NHS. These short, unpaid placements allow you to understand how UK healthcare works, build confidence, network with other doctors and strengthen your CV when applying for jobs. But what exactly is an observership, and how do you go about arranging one?
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) (also known as Continuing Medical Education (CME)) is a core requirement for your annual GMC appraisal and five-year revalidation cycle. But it’s not just about collecting hours or certificates—it’s about demonstrating meaningful engagement with learning that supports your current and future clinical practice and making it work for you.
The United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) has long been a beacon for medical professionals worldwide.For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), the UK offers a plethora of opportunities, but the journey is accompanied by unique challenges. Understanding the current landscape, the role of IMGs, and the support systems in place is crucial for those aspiring to practice medicine in the UK.
If you're preparing for your annual medical appraisal, you're probably aware that participation in quality improvement activity (QIA) is one of the six types of supporting information required by the GMC. But what exactly counts as a QIA—and how much is enough?
Under GMC requirements, doctors typically need a medical appraisal every 12 months as part of their revalidation cycle. However, if you have gaps in your practice due to periods of non-working, working abroad, or other reasons, the frequency and necessity of appraisals depend on several factors:
Understanding the GMC’s 2024 Update to Good Medical Practice and Its Impact on Appraisal
A medical appraisal is a yearly review of a doctor's work, supported by information from their entire practice. It's a chance for doctors to focus on their work with a trained colleague. The appraisal is primarily for professional development and is not a pass/fail assessment.
