Shows
MedCourse AudioblogTeaching Fellow Jobs: Top Tips for Successful ApplicationsTaking time out of training after finishing the Foundation years is becoming increasingly popular.
There are many reasons why you may want to take time out of training, such as to travel, earn money, or enjoy some free time.
One option for taking time out of training is to work in a Teaching Fellow Job.
Teaching Fellows are doctors who spend a proportion of their time teaching. There are many benefits to working as a Teaching Fellow, such as developing your teaching skills, getting a postgraduate qualification, and boosting your portfolio.
...2023-08-2314 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe Sought-After Side Hustle: How to Make it Happen as a DoctorA side hustle is a business that you can run alongside your full-time employment.
There are many reasons why doctors might want to start a side hustle, such as to earn extra money, pursue something outside of clinical work, or gain new skills.
Some common side hustle ideas for doctors include medical education, medical writing, health tech, and content creation.
Starting a side hustle takes hard work and determination, but it can be a rewarding experience.
If you're considering starting a side hustle, be sure to do your research and create a...2023-08-2317 min
MedCourse AudioblogIMG Jobs: Foundation, FY2 Standalone, or JCF?The NHS Foundation Programme is a two-year training program for newly graduated doctors. It provides them with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to become competent and compassionate clinicians.
In this article, Dr Kuvira Manamperi discusses the pros and cons of joining the foundation programme as an IMG, as well as when FY2 standalone, staff grade NHS jobs, or the MTI scheme might be more appropriate.
2023-08-1714 min
MedCourse AudioblogDifficult Cannulation – A Practical Guide to IV AccessIn this article by Dr Tirth Vasa, we explore the anaesthetist's perspective on difficult cannulation. He explores his top 8 tips on how to get the cannula in event the most difficult of veins.
Dr Vasa will help you to become one with the vein and succeed in difficult IV access.
2023-08-1716 min
MedCourse AudioblogEaster Sri Lanka Attack: My Experience at the Major Trauma CentreThis article describes the author's experience of working as a doctor in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka in 2019. The author, Mahen Elapatha, describes the chaos and devastation of the attacks, and the challenges of working in a resource-limited setting.
The author arrived at the scene of the attacks shortly after they happened. They were met with scenes of carnage and destruction. There were bodies and body parts everywhere, and the air was thick with the smell of smoke and blood. The author and their colleagues worked tirelessly to triage the patients and...2023-08-1010 min
MedCourse AudioblogMaking the Transition: IMG to NHSThe article "Transition: IMG to NHS" by MedCourse provides a comprehensive guide for international medical graduates (IMGs) who are looking to transition to the NHS. The article covers a wide range of topics, including:
The eligibility requirements for IMGs to work in the NHS
The application process for IMGs to work in the NHS
The challenges that IMGs can expect to face when transitioning to the NHS
How to overcome the challenges of transitioning to the NHS
The article also includes a number of helpful tips for IMGs, such as:
Start planning your transition to the...2023-08-1038 min
MedCourse AudioblogA Back Pocket Guide to Your First ‘On-call’ ShiftThe article "A Back Pocket Guide to Your First 'On-call' Shift" by MedCourse provides a comprehensive guide for junior doctors who are about to start their first on-call shift. The article covers a wide range of topics, including:
What is an on-call shift?
What to expect during an on-call shift
How to prepare for an on-call shift
How to stay safe during an on-call shift
How to debrief after an on-call shift
The article also includes a number of helpful tips for junior doctors, such as:
Make sure you have a good understanding of the on-call...2023-08-1018 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe Medical Training Initiative (MTI) DemystifiedIn this article we discuss the Medical Training Initiative. The author, Tirth, decided to apply for the MTI scheme in the UK, which is a program for international medical graduates to train in the NHS for up to 24 months.
The author describes the MTI process as daunting and complicated. They had to meet certain eligibility criteria, including having a primary medical qualification from an internationally recognized medical institution and having completed at least 3 years of postgraduate training in their home country. They also had to apply for the program through the Royal College of their chosen specialty.2023-08-1017 min
MedCourse AudioblogFrom Drowning to Breaking the Surface: My Reality of Being an FY1
A personal account of the challenges and rewards of being an FY1 doctor. The author describes the long hours, high workload, and financial struggles that are often associated with the job. However, they also highlight the satisfaction of helping patients and the opportunities to learn and grow as a doctor.
One of the biggest challenges the author faced as an FY1 was the long hours. They often worked 12-hour shifts, 7 days a week. This left them feeling exhausted and drained, and it was difficult to find time to relax and recharge. The author also found the high...2023-08-1008 min
MedCourse AudioblogTop Medical ST4 Interview TipsThe author, Nikhil Ahluwalia, is a Medical Registrar who has interviewed and successfully placed many ST4 interview candidates. He shares his top tips, including:
Show your enthusiasm! If you're not excited about the specialty, the interviewers won't be either. Make sure you convey your passion for the field, and smile!
Be prepared to answer common interview questions. The author provides a list of common ST4 interview questions, so you can practice your answers ahead of time.
Be specific about your reasons for choosing the specialty. Don't just say you're interested in the field because it's a good career mov...2023-08-1004 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe Emotional Turmoil of Guilt as a Junior DoctorGuilt, stress, and remorse are common feelings that doctors new and old feel on a daily basis. In this podcast, we read an article on guilt as a junior doctor, by Dr Kuvira Manamperi.
You can find more experiences on our website, as well as useful blog articles. You can also find Kuvira's other article on becoming an fy1.
2023-08-1007 min
MedCourse AudioblogEquipment You Need For Your First Medical ExpeditionGoing on a medical expedition can be a daunting task, but it is important to be prepared with the right equipment. This article discusses the essential equipment that you will need for your first medical expedition, including medical supplies, personal gear, and expedition-specific gear.
The article begins by discussing the medical supplies that you will need. These supplies include basic first aid supplies, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. You will also need more specialized supplies, such as splints, slings, and emergency medications.
The article then discusses the personal gear that you will...2023-07-0630 min
MedCourse AudioblogNavigating the Emotional Landscape of IV CannulationIV cannulation is a common medical procedure, but it can be emotionally challenging for junior doctors. The article discusses the emotional aspects of IV cannulation, including anxiety, stress, and guilt. It also talks about how to cope with these emotions and provide optimal patient care.
The article begins by describing the emotional challenges that junior doctors may face when performing IV cannulations. These challenges can include the fear of failure, the risk of causing pain to the patient, and the pressure to perform well. The article then goes on to discuss how these emotions can impact patient...2023-07-0611 min
MedCourse AudioblogUltimate Guide to the PLAB 1 Exam
The PLAB 1 exam is a written, multiple-choice question (MCQ) exam that tests candidates on their ability to approach and manage clinical situations commonly encountered as an FY2 or house officer in UK hospitals. The exam is held four times a year in the UK and in international centres. The GMC released exam seats for August and November 2023 in December 2022, and for the first half of 2024 on March 18, 2023. The GMC also intends on releasing additional slots for the November 2023 exam.
To prepare for the PLAB 1 exam, candidates should start their preparation 3-6 months before the exam. They should read the...2023-07-0621 min
MedCourse AudioblogMRCP PACES 2023 Format UpdateIn this article, we go through the 2023 changes to the MRCP PACES format.
This includes:
Updates to communication skills station
Changes to the clinical encounters
Removal of history stations
If you're still on MRCP Part 1, check out our guide to the part 1 exam or our ultimate guide to IMT.
2023-07-0620 min
MedCourse AudioblogQuick-start Guide to Your First Shift in the Emergency DepartmentTrembling in your boots thinking about your first shift in the emergency department? Don't worry, we got you.
In this article, Dr Callum Airlie gives you his top 11 tips for smashing your first shift, as well as a rundown on how the ED works in the UK.
Thinking about ACCS as a training pathway? Check out our guide to ACCS training.
2023-05-1625 min
MedCourse AudioblogFRCA Primary MCQ Examination Guide 2023For core and accs anaesthetic trainees who need to get to the next stage of their career, the FRCA Primary MCQ is the first exam you'll need to face.
In this article, we go over the exam format, exam dates, pass mark, and the updates for the september 2023 exam.
Check out the FRCA Exam article here.
If you want to know more about Anaesthetics, check out the article on Core Anaesthetics Interview and the Ultimate guide to ACCS.
2023-05-1612 min
MedCourse AudioblogBecoming an Offshore Medic – Work on an Oil RigIn this guide to becoming an offshore medic, Dr Hrushikesh talks you through the qualifications needed to become an offshore medic, as well as his experience of being an oil rig doctor.
Check out the article on becoming an offshore medic here.
Thinking about an alternative career? Check out our blog content on beyond medicine.
2023-05-1613 min
MedCourse AudioblogHow to Get Your First Medical ExpeditionWorking as an expedition medic is no doubt exciting, but there are plenty of challenges to getting the job in the first place!
In this article, Dr Dawn Barlow talks you through her tips for getting your first expedition as a junior doctor.
Also check out our expedition medicine and pre-hospital medicine courses to learn more!
2023-04-1819 min
MedCourse Audioblog5 Tips on How to Prepare for your MRCEM Primary ExamIn this episode, Dr Ian Stell from Bromley Emergency Courses discusses his top 5 tips to passing the MRCEM primary exam.
This is incredibly useful if you are considering ACCS EM as a career path.
Check out our exam courses for the MRCEM primary.
2023-04-1803 min
MedCourse AudioblogUltimate Guide to Working in New Zealand as a Junior DoctorAnyone who is looking to move from the UK to New Zealand to work as a doctor should listen to this guide!
We discuss:
- All of the must-knows for working in NZ as a junior doc
- How to make the most of your adventures
- Keeping on top of your portfolio while there
2023-04-1819 min
MedCourse AudioblogMedical Portfolio Tips: Become a Portfolio PirateIn this article by Dr Victoria Kinkaid, we discuss how to keep your medical portfolio in top notch condition, including:
- How to capture all of your CBDs/mini-CEX's like a portfolio pirate.
- How to manage your QIPs.
- Making the most of portfolio for interviews.
2023-04-1805 min
MedCourse AudioblogCore & ACCS Anaesthetics CT1 Interview Guide 2023Thinking about applying to anaesthetics in 2023?
Get all the info you need right here:
Advice from an anaesthetic registrar
The interview process
Timeline
Format
Clinical Scenario
General Interview
Interview Scoring
Check out the full article on the MedCourse Blog.
We also have plenty of information on ACCS in our ultimate guide.
Need an extra push to help you smash the interview? Check out our medical interview courses.
2023-02-0326 min
MedCourse AudioblogMRCP Part 1 Exam Guide 2023In this article, we discuss the MRCP Part 1 Exam, including:
Everything you need to know about the MRCP Part 1 Exam
Question format
Trigger words
Exam technique and advice
How to apply
Exam dates
Pass mark
Results date
Check out the full article on MRCP here.
Think you might need an extra boost for your exam? We have a selection of MRCP courses to get you over the line!
2023-02-0314 min
MedCourse AudioblogTop 10 Tips for Surviving “The Night Shift”In this article by Dr. Victoria Kinkaid, we talk through the top 10 tips to transform you into a nightshift ninja.
See the full article on our blog page for junior doctors.
Dr Kinkaid also has her own podcast on female empowerment - Virago Voices - check it out!
For more career tips, speciality advice, and content for junior doctors, check out our blog.
2023-02-0309 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe Best Free Online ECG Courses & WebsitesIn this edition of the MedCourse AudioBlog, we talk ECG resources, including:
The best 7 free online ECG courses
Top online ECG quizzes
Other ECG-related websites to help you learn
Check out the full article on our blog.
Not sure whether you really need an ECG course? Check out our guide to ECG training courses.
Prefer to pay for high-quality in-person or online courses? We have a great selection of clinical workshops on our course calendar.
2023-02-0309 min
MedCourse AudioblogA Guide to ECG Training Courses for Junior DoctorsIn this episode of the MedCourse AudioBlog, we discuss ECG courses:
- Who needs an ECG course?
- Why should you go on an ECG course?
- How to choose between online and in-person courses
and much more.
See our article on ECG courses on the MedCourse Blog.
You can also catch the best free online ECG courses to attend.
Sold on the idea? We have a range of clinical skills workshops to attend, including ECG courses.
2023-02-0316 min
MedCourse AudioblogCST Recruitment & Application Guide 2023In this guide to Core Surgical Training (CST) recruitment and application, we will talk through eligibility criteria, self assessment, shortlisting, the MSRA, the interview, and how CST jobs are allocated.
To learn more about CST self-assessment, read our 2023 guide.
You can find more information about other specialities including IMT, CST, and ACCS in the speciality guide section of our blog.
We also have career guidance, journal club, and interesting experiences from junior doctors on the MedCourse blog.
2022-11-2525 minMedCourse AudioblogCST Interview Portfolio Self-Assessment Scoring Guide 2023In this guide to Core Surgical Training (CST) Interview Portfolio Self-Assessment Scoring, we will cover everything you need to know about the scoring system, as well as providing helpful hints and tips as we go to make sure you maximise your score for 2023.
Please also see our in-depth article at in our CST Interview Scoring Article.
2022-10-0648 min
MedCourse AudioblogYou Will Make Mistakes... and That’s OkayIn this audioblog, founder of MedCourse Dr James Davidson discusses why mistakes are an essential part of becoming a fantastic junior doctor, and shares some of the mistakes he made along the way.
While this article was aimed at FY1 doctors entering medicine for the first time on black Wednesday, it also acts as a reminder to all junior doctors to take care of themselves and practice self-care.
2022-08-1908 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe 34 Best Free Resources for UK Junior Doctors 2022In this episode of our AudioBlog we will cover the 34 best FREE resources for Junior Doctors working in the United Kingdom in 2022. Black Wednesday is coming up in the NHS, meaning that it's time for new FY1 doctors to step up to the plate, and for all our UK trainees to play musical chairs.
To get the best out of your new placements, check out the new article on our blog for junior doctors UK.
There is so much free guidance and support out there!
Featuring:
Mind the Bleep
MedProjectHub
...2022-07-2739 min
MedCourse AudioblogUltimate Guide to Internal Medicine Training (IMT) 2022Have you ever sat in a medical handover, exhausted following 12 hours of extinguishing fires across the hospital, and listened to the conversation between medical trainees thinking “I have no idea what is happening”?
You’re not alone.
Internal Medicine Training (IMT) is the 3-year UK programme that aims to turn you from that dumbstruck foundation trainee into the legendary medical registrar – a hardened veteran of the acute take, master of the dumping grounds, wizard of the wards.
The “Internal Medicine Trainee” badge on your lanyard may still draw raised eyebrows from colleagues who had only jus...2022-06-1130 min
MedCourse AudioblogUltimate Guide to ACCS Training 2022Adrenaline junkies rejoice! Take off your bike helmet, put down your coffee mug, and have a gander at the training options that Acute Care Common Stem (ACCS) brings to those who like their medicine with a little bit of thrill.
If you like a bit of variety in your work, ACCS brings you rotations across Emergency Medicine, Acute Medicine, Anaesthetics, and Intensive Care Medicine – giving you some flexibility in your future career.
Confused about how it all works? You’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ll go through the types of ACCS traini...2022-06-1117 minMedCourse AudioblogInternal Medicine Training (IMT) Recruitment Guide 2023If you’ve checked out our Ultimate Guide to IMT and decided that Internal Medicine Training (IMT) is the programme for you, it’s time to prepare for your application. But how does recruitment for IMT work exactly?
In this guide to the IMT recruitment process, 2023 will go through recruitment eligibility, timeline, how programme preferences work, and other types of IMT like Acute Care Common Stem – Internal Medicine (ACCS-IM), and standalone IMY3.
2022-06-1112 min
MedCourse AudioblogInternal Medicine Training (IMT) Application and Scoring Guide 2023So, you want to apply for Internal Medicine Training (IMT). You know it’s right for you, you’ve checked the person specification, and you’re ready to apply. So how do you apply for Internal Medicine Training (IMT) in 2023?
In this podcast, we will discuss how to apply for IMT and how to maximise your IMT application score.
If you're not sure how it all works, check out our IMT recruitment guide and IMT interview guide.
2022-06-1120 min
MedCourse AudioblogMy COVID Meltdown | Dr Besu AsfawDr Besu Asfaw, a doctor who has worked for MSF in resource-stricken areas, tells us about his experience travelling at the onset of the pandemic and working in the NHS during the crisis.
It's our pleasure to publish this wonderful short story.
Check out more medical experiences here.
If you have a story to share, please contribute to MedCourse.
2022-06-1107 minMedCourse AudioblogInternal Medicine Training (IMT) Interview Guide 2023So, you’ve decided to apply for IMT, nailed your application, and have been shortlisted for an Internal Medicine Training (IMT) interview.
What next?
In this guide, we’ll run you through the IMT interview process, including sections of the interview and how to maximise your interview score. If you haven’t already, check out our ultimate guide to IMT, IMT recruitment guide, and IMT application scoring guide.
2022-06-1121 min
MedCourse AudioblogThe Ultimate Guide to Quality Improvement ProjectsQuality Improvement Projects (QIPs) are a huge part of medical training in the UK. If done right, junior doctors and other clinicians can quickly and effectively run a quality improvement project that boosts their CV and enhances their career.
Learn how to get the most out of your quality improvement project.
Learn more from the MedCourse Blog.
2022-06-0612 min