How to succeed in the ST3 dermatology application
BMJ 2015; 351 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h5574 (Published 06 November 2015) Cite this as: BMJ 2015;351:h5574
- Sue Ann Chan, dermatology registrar, University Hospital Birmingham,
- Georgina A Fremlin, dermatology registrar, Dermatology Department, Solihull Hospital,
- Tracey M Finch, consultant dermatologist, Dermatology Department, Solihull Hospital
- sueann.chan{at}nhs.net
Abstract
Sue Ann Chan, Georgina Fremlin, and Tracey Finch explain how to get a training place in this popular specialty
In 2015 dermatology was the most sought after medical specialty, with four applicants for every post. Despite this level of competition it is an excellent time to consider a career in dermatology as there are currently roughly 100 vacant consultant posts in the United Kingdom. However, with relatively few national training numbers compared with most specialties, applicants need to show their interest and commitment to the specialty early on in their career.
Here are some tips for aspiring young doctors considering a career in dermatology.
Get to know the local dermatology team
Most hospitals have a dedicated dermatology department. Approach the team and try to get involved in clinics, projects, audits, grand round presentations, case reports, or research projects. This will broaden your knowledge of dermatology and shows commitment to the specialty.
Common dermatological cases can be seen in clinics, attendance at which should be documented in your e-portfolio.
Make the most of your medical training
If dermatology rotations are not offered in your hospital, contact your local dermatology departments so that you can organise a taster week or get actively involved in clinics during your study leave, annual leave, or post on-call rest days. Do audits and research projects with a dermatological theme, even if you are doing a rotation in a different medical specialty. Present your findings at a dermatology meeting or a hospital grand round and obtain evidence.
Core medical trainees should make the most of rotations in other medical specialties. Dermatology also accepts applicants from paediatric training routes; specific details on this entry route are on the ST3 recruitment website (www.st3recruitment.org.uk).
Be familiar with the selection process
A good source of information is the ST3 recruitment website. Be organised and note important dates such as submission deadlines and interview dates. The evidence part of the application form is where you gain your points, so study the website early to identify areas where you can maximise your application points.
The interview
It is essential to be aware of the interview format—details of this are posted on the ST3 recruitment website. Currently, there are three 10 minute stations, each covering two key areas as detailed below:
Station 1
● Suitability for and commitment to ST3 training in dermatology
● Achievements to date
Station 2
● Research and academic medicine
● Teaching
Station 3
● Communication skills/knowledge of ethical issues
● Clinical understanding
Commitment to specialty: the six “Ps”
Publications—These may be original research project publications, audit publications, case reports, case series, or quality improvement projects. Being first author of two or more publications will provide you with full marks for the publication section in the ST3 application. Publications should be cited on Pubmed.
Presentations—These may be departmental presentations, grand round presentations, or regional, national, or international oral presentations. You may consider presenting at regional dermatology society meetings; annual meetings of the British Association of Dermatologists (www.bad.org.uk), British Association of Dermatologists’ DermSchool meetings, or Royal Society of Medicine dermatology section meetings; or internationally at the European Association of Dermatology and Venereology annual congress and the American Academy of Dermatology annual meetings.
Posters—Consider submitting abstracts for poster presentations to the events mentioned above. To obtain maximum points for the poster/presentation section, you will need to have given an oral presentation or more than one poster at a national or international medical meeting.
Prizes—Poster or oral presentation prizes look impressive at interview, showing high quality of work and effort. Look for regular updates from different medical societies. The British Association of Dermatologists offers annual prizes and education and elective grants for medical students and junior doctors, while the Royal Society of Medicine has a number of prizes for students and trainee doctors annually.
Postgraduate examinations—The full MRCP (UK) diploma is now a requirement for entry into specialist training in the United Kingdom. Given the competitive nature of the dermatology, it is not uncommon for candidates to pursue an extra degree to show commitment to the specialty. An intercalated degree, BSc, masters, or PhD will also lead to presentations and publications. You can also explore postgraduate diplomas, which may be completed part time or with distance learning to gain extra points in your application.
Participation in courses and meetings—Be familiar with the compulsory courses that you will need to complete, such as the advanced life support course and your local mandatory training courses. Attending dermatology specific events helps you to gain knowledge, show commitment, and gain an insight into a career as a dermatologist.