Applications open for flexible training scheme

According to the HSE, places increased by 33 per cent in July 2016 and this will remain the case for 2017 with 32 places available. The purpose of the scheme is primarily to facilitate doctors in training who have “caring responsibilities” to continue training whilst working less than full time.

Doctors who have completed the first year of Basic Specialist Training or equivalent can apply. It is recommended that the final year of training be undertaken full time. Full details including the HSE-NDTP policy and application process are available on the HSE-NDTP website www.hse.ie/doctors.

The closing date for applications is 9 December 2016. All suitable applications will be considered and decisions about allocation of places will be made in January 2017.

Doctors will be informed of the outcome of their application no later than 31 January 2017.

“It is strongly recommended that all doctors should speak with their respective training body before completing their application so that their training needs are considered,” stated the HSE.

Any trainee who accepts a place and who subsequently decides not to proceed with the scheme should notify the NDTP not later than 31 March 2017. “This is to ensure that as many trainees as possible get an opportunity to participate in the scheme, including those on the reserve list,” noted the Executive.