The Royal College of Anaesthesists (RCOA) is the governing body for Anaesthetists working in NHS just like ISA( Indian society of Anesthesists) in INDIA. It is a very prestigious organisation revered throughout the world. A membership of RCOA along with GMC (General medical council) registration is mandatory to practice and move ahead in career in NHS.
While RCOA membership can be applied by anyone, a GMC registration is what is necessary to practice in the UK.
GMC is like MCI( Medical Council of India) and its compulsory to be registered with it for getting a license to practice in UK.
So, How can you obtain GMC registration after completing post graduation?
1. Clear both parts of PLAB ( which is slowly being phased out and UKMLA is being introduced) : not worth it according to me, after finishing post graduation.
2. Clear both parts of European Diploma in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care ( EDAIC) : an avenue worth trying for ones who are thinking in the long term.
3. Clear FRCA Primary ( Mcq and Viva/Osce): a more difficult exam than EDAIC. But the best way forward.
4. MTI : Medical Training Initiative eligible only for Post graduates having a minimum of 3 years of training in anaesthesia. No exams needed. Depends on vacancies. Easiest way to get in to UK.
5. Clear European Diploma in Intensive Care (EDIC) . This has been very recently added and is a viable option for those who want to venture down the Critical care path.
Along with any one of the above, you would need to pass IELTS/OET ( tests of English language) and your Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees to be verified by ECFMG to be eligible to apply for GMC registration. Its a long process and requires planning. So if you have decided to venture the NHS route, you need to get on with it, as its easy to get frustrated with all the paperwork and formalities that is required but have patience and you will get it eventually.
This is my first blog. I will soon detail on each of the avenues and exams and how to go about each of them. Meanwhile please leave your queries and suggestions. Thanks and good luck.