GPs will be able to progress their studies without leaving the Isle of Man under a new agreement that lets them sit exams on Island.
Since 2015, all GP training has been provided on Island apart from two exams which must be sat in the UK - but border restrictions currently mean doctors must self-isolate for 14 days after each trip.
Under the new arrangement GPs will be able to sit the initial exam at University College Isle of Man’s on-line test centre in Douglas – avoiding the need to isolate.
The deal between the Isle of Man Government and the North West Medical Deanery, who support the training programme, was agreed this week.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:
‘I’m very grateful to the staff at UCM who have worked together with our NHS to support this development’
The three year training programme is available to doctors who have already completed both their medical degree and two years of hospital training.
David Ashford MHK, Minister for Health and Social Care said:
‘This is great news for GP practices, doctors and patients. We usually have three doctors start this training each year and it is helping with long term plans in relation to on-Island recruitment and retention.'
Since the launch of the course in 2015, the Isle of Man Government has progressed from one GP training practice to seven practices able to take trainees.
