Fees Frozen For Doctors Completing Specialty/GP Training

Main Category: Medical Students / Training
Also Included In: Primary Care / General Practice
Article Date: 10 Jul 2009 - 4:00 PDT

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions

The GMC and PMETB have announced that the fees for trainee doctors completing specialty/GP training - and those seeking certification via the equivalence routes - will be frozen at the current levels for 2010/11.

The Government announced that PMETB would be merged with the GMC following an independent inquiry into 'Modernising Medical Careers' led by Sir John Tooke. The merger aims to build on the strengths of both bodies and, once complete, will mean that for the first time, all stages of medical education and training are the responsibility of a single organisation.

The GMC and PMETB are working together to ensure the merger is achieved by the planned date of 1 April 2010. The legislation, which will transfer PMETB's power to the GMC, is currently being consulted on by the Department of Health (England). Funding for the merger has been agreed, in principle, by the Department of Health, subject to further work.

GMC Chair, Professor Peter Rubin said:

"I know trainees will welcome this news as it gives assurance that the fee levels will not rise in 2010/11. The full benefits of the merger will not be realised for some time - however I am pleased that the immediate economies of scale can be passed on to doctors in specialty and GP training. The merger provides an opportunity for a more radical look at the fees and the funding structure and the GMC will consult on proposals after the merger has been completed."

PMETB Chair, Professor Stuart Macpherson said:

"This announcement is another positive step in the journey towards PMETB's merger with the GMC next year. It is important because it provides reassurance to trainees wishing to apply for specialist or general practice registration, that both organisations are committed to ensuring that the merger does not cause doctors any inconvenience. Most importantly it tells trainees that we are able to continue to offer a fair, thorough and expedient certificate application service with no additional costs for applicants.

"Both the GMC and PMETB look forward to working towards the continued progression and development of high standards of medical training and education in the UK."

Source
The General Medical Council
PMETB