New Registration Framework for Doctors

Introduction

The cornerstone of the GMC’s new registration framework, introduced on 19 October 2007, was the abolition of limited registration.

This category of registration previously applied only to international medical graduates (IMGs). The new framework of provisional and full registration applies equally to all doctors, no matter where they qualify.

The new registration framework is part of the GMC’s continuing programme of reform and will assure both patient safety and equality of treatment for doctors. It will also mean greater clarity for anyone who needs to consult the register.

How does the New Registration Framework affect doctors?

The new registration framework has implications for all doctors new to full registration: UK and EEA graduates as well as IMGs.

UK graduates and IMGs who are new to full registration and taking up a new job, or restoring their names to the register after a prolonged absence from practice, are required to work within a practice setting (APS) approved by the GMC as suitable for doctors new to full registration. We strongly advise EEA graduates to ensure they too work in an APS when they first take up employment in the UK under full registration. We also advise  EEA doctors restored to the register after prolonged absence from UK practice to work initially in an APS.

Approved practice settings (APS)

An APS is one which has systems for the effective management of doctors, systems for identifying and acting upon concerns about doctors’ fitness to practise, systems to support the provision of relevant training or continuing professional development, and systems for providing regulatory assurance. This will also help ensure that, in the small number of cases where problems arise, there are systems in place which are capable of detecting them early. For more information read our guidance on approved practice settings.

UK graduates and doctors applying for restoration can read more information in New Registration Framework for Doctors: What it means for the Registration of UK Graduates and Doctors Returning to the Register (December 2007) (132kb, pdf).

International medical graduates (IMGs)

IMGs are now able to apply direct for provisional or full registration. They still need to satisfy rigorous criteria before this is granted, but no longer need an offer of employment beforehand.

Whether they apply for provisional or full registration depends on the nature and extent of their postgraduate experience. If they have satisfactorily completed either Foundation Year 1 in the UK or a period of postgraduate clinical experience (for example, an overseas internship) that provides an acceptable foundation for future practice as a fully-registered medical practitioner, they can apply for full registration. If they have not, they may apply for provisional registration.

Doctors who meet the criteria for full registration are not eligible for provisional registration.

New criteria for registering IMGs

IMGs applying for either provisional or full registration need to meet rigorous criteria. They are required to satisfy the GMC that:

• They hold an acceptable primary medical qualification
• They have the requisite knowledge and skills for registration
• Their fitness to practise is not impaired
• They have the necessary knowledge of English

Doctors may demonstrate their medical knowledge and skills in one of the following ways:

• A pass in the PLAB test
• Sponsorship by a medical Royal College or other sponsoring body for further postgraduate training
• An acceptable postgraduate qualification
• Eligibility for entry in the Specialist or GP Register

Doctors applying for full registration must also submit evidence that they have satisfactorily completed either Foundation Year 1 in the UK or a period of postgraduate clinical experience that provides an acceptable foundation for future practice as a fully registered medical practitioner.

Please see our guidance on applying for registration.