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MTAS - Application to speciality training in Wales

30 March 2007

As you are aware significant concern has arisen over the current speciality training application system, prompting the UK Government to establish an independent review group.

So far the review group have reported three times, each time changing the proposals for short listing and defining ‘choice’ as having just one interview in your preferred choice UoA/specialty.

Last week, unacceptable proposals led to the ‘walk out’ of BMA representatives from the review group.

Since then, the Welsh Deanery, Welsh Assembly Government and the BMA’s Welsh Junior Doctors Committee have been working together to make a flawed system equitable, one that reflects fairness and choice!!! However, it is acknowledged that the agreed outcome may not suit everyone.

Discussions between the Deanery, Consultants, Specialty leads and Post graduate organisers concluded that the interviews already conducted were robust, fair and able to differentiate between candidates.

However, because of the overall lack of confidence in the short listing process, it has been further decided that all remaining eligible applicants who applied to Wales will now be offered interviews in all specialties to which they have applied. This is a huge undertaking by the Deanery and the many consultants involved. The interviews will be to the same standard, using similar methods and evidence available as the already completed interviews. It is expected there will be a single round of application in Wales and all jobs will be appointed from the ranked lists from the interview process.

A consequence of extending the interview process means the deadline initially set by MTAS of April 26th 2007 will not be achieved. Likely, the English Deaneries will not be able to deliver the current round 1 until June 7th 2007. Thus, generating further uncertainty and doubt about the future.

There is an acknowledgement within Wales that a significant review of the MMC system is necessary as it is clearly inflexible regarding matters such as points of re-entry to ST and transferable competencies, etc.

We hope this information brings some clarity to what is a very confusing, uninformed and fluid time, setting clearly the position that has been agreed and is realistically deliverable in Wales.

We will endeavour to update you as details become available. We would also encourage you to check the website www.mmcwales.org for up to date details.

The BMA vigorously campaigns on the professional issues that are important to you. The more members who engage in Welsh Junior Doctors Committee activities the more we can accomplish and the stronger our voice!!

If you are interested in getting involved at either a Trust or National level please contact me on info.wjdc@bma.org.uk.

We look forward to receiving your comments.

Ian Benton
Chairman
Welsh Junior Doctors Committee