MRCP equivalent?

[usmd]

For someone new to the system, the terminology can be confusing. I have read a little about the MRCP and have trouble understanding what the US equivalent would be. Is it the USMLE? Or Board certification?

Some job adverts mention MRCP essential, while others say "or equivalent". In order for me to qualify, I'd need to understand what it is they are referring to. Any help appreciated.

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[ramekin]

MRCP is equivalent to BC in internal medicine.

 

[ramekin]

Forgot to add link: http://careers.bmj.com/careers/advice/view-article.html?id=193

Edit: correction.

 

[usmd]

Thanks for the link, ramekin. The MRCP has several parts, including PACES. Is the BC equivalent to the entire MRCP series or just to one part?

 

[pattycanuck]

If you are happy to share (as it may be easier for someone to comment directly on your situation), what qualifications do you have?

MRCP involves a few parts - don't have an MRCP until you finish the series (passing only part 1 doesn't mean you have an MRCP).

 

[usmd]

I am Board Certified in Internal Medicine. So, is that equivalent to passing all parts of MRCP? Would that mean I have a good chance of being on the specialist register?

In the US, internists act as primary care physicians. Can they do that in the UK, or do they have to be GPs? Is there anything different that you have to go through in order to be a GP?

 

[jtlc2345]

I think that being Board Certified in Internal Medicine is equivalent to MRCP (i.e. passing all parts), however, I'm not not sure that would be enough to get you on the specialist register to allow you to practice as a consultant (i.e. attending). In the UK, MRCP is a requirement to undergo specialist training (equivalent to fellowship) in a medical specialty. Only after specialist training do you receive a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) which allows you entry onto the specialist register and to be able to work as a consultant.

To be a GP, you need to undergo GP training and possess MRCGP - a separate exam.

I think the best thing to do would be to contact either the BMA (http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/coming_to_work_in_uk/index.jsp) or the RCP (http://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/international/IMG/Pages/International-Medical-Graduates.aspx) who should be able to give you specific advice based on your qualifications and experience.

Hope this is of some help

Jonathan

 

[usmd]

Thanks for the links. They were very useful. Unfortunately, finding a clinical attachment is not easy, nor will I be able to support my family while doing one. We'll have to work through that.

But, according to the second link, generally speaking, I should be able to qualify for the specialist register as a consultant in general internal medicine. I say "generally speaking" because the process requires 5 referees, and I will not be able to know what the referees might say about me. Otherwise, I have had the training and passed the examination that they are looking for.

 

[jtlc2345]

Do you not get to choose your referees? Asides, it probably would still be prudent to get some professional advice specific to you so you know exactly where you stand.

Good luck with the process

Jonathan

 

[amanbano]

I need a partner to study or discuss things with online regarding PACES, please feel free to PM me, thanks a lot