Equivalence of Training

In order to work as a consultant in the UK, doctors must be on the Specialist Register of the UK General Medical Council [GMC]. 

Doctors with a European recognised specialist qualification should apply directly to the GMC (not to the Faculty).  Specialists who trained outside the EEA or completed a non-European recognised specialist training programme within the EEA can apply to the GMC for a Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration [CESR].

Equivalence describes the process of assessing an applicant's training and experience against the current UK CCT training programme requirements in order to gain a CESR. 

Applicants should note that equivalence of training in ICM alone cannot result in an entry to the Specialist Register.  Applications for consideration of equivalence of training in ICM should therefore accompany an application in respect of a main specialty, or follow a successful application in respect of training in the main specialty - please see the FICM notes on ICM equivalence applications.

Equivalence procedures are the responsibility of the General Medical Council. Initial enquiries should be made to the GMC.  Applicants should ensure that they have read the GMC-approved Specialty Specific Guidance for ICM CESR applications, as well as the GMC's generic guidance for the types of evidence required to support a CESR application. 

Last updated: 08/02/11