MedCourse Audioblog

Internal Medicine Training (IMT) Application & Recruitment Guide  is the largest hospital-based training program outside of the foundation program and is second only to GP training in size, with 1670 posts available in 2023. Whether you want to become a world-class generalist or even a gastroenterologist  in the medical specialities, the traditional training pathway is through trainings like I...

The Ophthalmology ST1 application is renowned for its fierce competition, demanding more than just academic prowess. With a competition ratio of 9.91 in 2023, it ranks as the 5th most competitive CT/ST1 specialty. Aspiring ophthalmologists encounter a rigorous selection process, necessitating a strategic approach for success. Within this article, we'll delve into the stages before Ophthalmology ST...

Returning to the UK from down under can mark a substantial transition, particularly for medical professionals such as Radiologists  . Whether it's driven by family commitments, a desire to reconnect with old friends, or simply yearning for the familiarity of British traditions like a proper cup of tea, the prospect may appear daunting. However, fret not, as I'm here to furnish you with a detailed...

Gastroenterology stands out as a popular choice among medical specialties like Neurology , drawing significant interest and fostering intense competition. In the initial round of 2023, there were 309 applications vying for 111 positions, resulting in a ratio of 2.78 applicants per slot. Similarly, the competition in the first round of 2022 mirrored this intensity, with just over 3 applicants per p...

The Radiology ST1 interview guide marks a pivotal moment for budding radiologists. This article serves as a guide, steering prospective candidates through the intricacies of the interview process. From grasping the competitiveness of the field to unraveling the interview structure, this comprehensive resource is tailored to furnish you with the insights and assurance required to thrive. We'll cove...

Neurology presents a dynamic landscape where trainees navigate independently and within multidisciplinary teams (MDT) to address patients' immediate and enduring concerns. It's an ideal realm for individuals who: Possess adept clinical skills and effective communication abilities. Embrace a problem-solving approach, coupled with a keen interest in applying practical neuroscience. Thrive as team pl...

The Ophthalmology ST1 interview represents a crucial turning point for aspiring ophthalmologists, symbolizing the first significant stride towards a rewarding career in eye care. As the ultimate active phase in the ophthalmology ST1 application process , success here propels candidates into contention for a coveted training position.   This rigorous selection process scrutinizes candidates across...

As an F3 doctor, I'm currently relishing my experience working in New Zealand. Reflecting on my F2 year in Exeter, I served as the president of the doctors' mess. Initially, upon entering the foundation program, I had little understanding of what a mess entailed or its benefits, let alone the responsibilities of joining the committee. I've crafted this article "A Guide to the Doctors’ Mess Committ...

The Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) exam represents a joint venture between the British Pharmacological Society and MSC Assessment. This online evaluation among others such as PLAB1 Exam , operating on a pass/fail basis, appraises the prescribing proficiencies of final-year medical students. It correlates with the competencies outlined by the General Medical Council (GMC) in their "Outcomes fo...

After conquering the grueling MRCP Part 1 and Part 2 Written exams, the PACES exam stands as the final hurdle before earning the esteemed MRCP UK diploma and joining the prestigious Royal College of Physicians (London, Edinburgh, or Glasgow). This exam is relentless and demanding, with many candidates needing multiple attempts to pass. It's worth noting that candidates are not required to take the...

This is an article about resources for the MRCP PACES exam. It discusses different resources including courses, books, podcasts, and blogs. Some resources are more helpful than others, depending on your learning style and budget.  The article recommends using a variety of resources. Online courses are a good option for those who want access to instructors and practice exams. PACES books are a good...

Taking time out of training after finishing the Foundation years is becoming increasingly popular. There are many reasons why you may want to take time out of training, such as to travel , earn money , or enjoy some free time. One option for taking time out of training is to work in a Teaching Fellow Job . Teaching Fellows are doctors who spend a proportion of their time teaching. There are many b...

A side hustle is a business that you can run alongside your full-time employment. There are many reasons why doctors might want to start a side hustle, such as to earn extra money, pursue something outside of clinical work, or gain new skills. Some common side hustle ideas for doctors include medical education , medical writing , health tech, and content creation. Starting a side hustle takes hard...

The NHS Foundation Programme is a two-year training program for newly graduated doctors. It provides them with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to become competent and compassionate clinicians.   In this article, Dr Kuvira Manamperi discusses the pros and cons of joining the foundation programme as an IMG , as well as when FY2 standalone, staff grade NHS jobs , or the MTI scheme mi...

In this article by Dr Tirth Vasa, we explore the anaesthetist's perspective on difficult cannulation. He explores his top 8 tips on how to get the cannula in event the most difficult of veins.    Dr Vasa will help you to become one with the vein and succeed in difficult IV access.

This article describes the author's experience of working as a doctor in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka in 2019. The author, Mahen Elapatha, describes the chaos and devastation of the attacks, and the challenges of working in a resource-limited setting. The author arrived at the scene of the attacks shortly after they happened. They were met with scenes of carnage and des...

The article "Transition: IMG to NHS" by MedCourse provides a comprehensive guide for international medical graduates (IMGs) who are looking to transition to the NHS. The article covers a wide range of topics, including: The eligibility requirements for IMGs to work in the NHS The application process for IMGs to work in the NHS The challenges that IMGs can expect to face when transitioning to the N...

The article "A Back Pocket Guide to Your First 'On-call' Shift" by MedCourse provides a comprehensive guide for junior doctors who are about to start their first on-call shift. The article covers a wide range of topics, including: What is an on-call shift? What to expect during an on-call shift How to prepare for an on-call shift How to stay safe during an on-call shift How to debrief after an on-...

In this article we discuss the Medical Training Initiative . The author, Tirth, decided to apply for the MTI scheme in the UK, which is a program for international medical graduates to train in the NHS for up to 24 months. The author describes the MTI process as daunting and complicated. They had to meet certain eligibility criteria, including having a primary medical qualification from an interna...

A personal account of the challenges and rewards of being an FY1 doctor. The author describes the long hours, high workload, and financial struggles that are often associated with the job. However, they also highlight the satisfaction of helping patients and the opportunities to learn and grow as a doctor. One of the biggest challenges the author faced as an FY1 was the long hours. They often work...

The author, Nikhil Ahluwalia, is a Medical Registrar who has interviewed and successfully placed many ST4 interview candidates . He shares his top tips, including: Show your enthusiasm! If you're not excited about the specialty, the interviewers won't be either. Make sure you convey your passion for the field, and smile! Be prepared to answer common interview questions. The author provides a list...

Guilt, stress, and remorse are common feelings that doctors new and old feel on a daily basis. In this podcast, we read an article on guilt as a junior doctor, by Dr Kuvira Manamperi.   You can find more experiences on our website, as well as useful blog articles . You can also find Kuvira's other article on becoming an fy1.

Going on a medical expedition can be a daunting task, but it is important to be prepared with the right equipment. This article discusses the essential equipment that you will need for your first medical expedition , including medical supplies, personal gear, and expedition-specific gear. The article begins by discussing the medical supplies that you will need. These supplies include basic first a...

IV cannulation is a common medical procedure, but it can be emotionally challenging for junior doctors. The article discusses the emotional aspects of IV cannulation, including anxiety, stress, and guilt. It also talks about how to cope with these emotions and provide optimal patient care. The article begins by describing the emotional challenges that junior doctors may face when performing IV can...

The PLAB 1 exam is a written, multiple-choice question (MCQ) exam that tests candidates on their ability to approach and manage clinical situations commonly encountered as an FY2 or house officer in UK hospitals. The exam is held four times a year in the UK and in international centres. The GMC released exam seats for August and November 2023 in December 2022, and for the first half of 2024 on Mar...