December is traditionally the time of year that most people get ready for Christmas.
Many junior doctors also face the additional pressure of applying for new jobs. But, with all the distractions of the festive season, it is important that everyone understands the recruitment process to maximise their chances of getting the training post they want.
Recruitment for specialty training officially began on the 4 December. And whilst the ill-conceived MTAS has been confined to the dustbin of history; we cannot be complacent.
There were glitches in the some of the application systems last year, but thankfully these were sorted out before any junior doctors were disadvantaged. However, they reminded us of the need to stay vigilant and proactive rather than reactive.
The principles of the Tooke Report should still be ringing in the ears of those responsible for recruitment. Change, although not unwelcome, must be evidence based. We must have robust piloting to find out how new systems operate in the real world and critically new computer systems must be rigorously tested.
The cost of getting selection for specialty training wrong is high, not merely financially, but in terms of affecting the public services our patients receive and the careers of individual doctors.
We have concerns over changes that may be on the horizon. There has been talk of introducing another knowledge-based test for specialty recruitment. The rationale for knowledge-based selection tests is not clear and the BMA has been critical of these tests as there is little evidence that they are a good way of selecting the best candidates.
Machine marked testing (MMT) is also looming. It has been mooted as a way of addressing the inconsistency of assessments which has caused problems for deaneries in national recruitment and has frustrated applicants.
Unless planned thoroughly, dissected microscopically and piloted, MMT will receive a hostile reception from junior doctors which it may not survive.
To maximise the chance of getting the job we want, it is critical that all applicants ensure they are familiar the process for 2010. The MMC website and Deanery websites are the main resources, although posts may also be advertised via BMJ Careers and NHS jobs.
If applicants encounter problems during the recruitment process they should contact the BMA on 0300 123 1233 so that we can put pressure on those responsible.
Doing your research thoroughly prior to applying or accepting a post is crucial as there are regional variations in the content of training programmes. Study leave and relocation allowances can also vary and the best way to find out what’s available is to speak to those in post currently.
This is the only way to avoid the Nightmare before Christmas. Good luck!
Tags: Jobs, Tooke Report
