Careers in Pathology in the UK: Training Pathway for an IMG

Pathology is a fascinating field that delves into the underlying causes of diseases, making it an intriguing choice for those who want to understand the why and how of medical conditions. For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in pursuing a career in pathology in the UK, there are multiple specialties and subspecialties to explore. This guide will provide an overview of the training pathways for IMGs interested in pathology.

Related Subspecialties

Pathology in the UK is a diverse field with several subspecialties. Before diving into the training details, it’s essential to know that not only medical doctors but also clinical scientists can build a career in pathology in the UK. For IMGs interested in this field, the following specialties and subspecialties should be considered:

• Histopathology (Cellular Pathology)
• Chemical Pathology (Clinical Biochemistry)
• Haematology
• Medical Microbiology
• Medical Virology
• Clinical Immunology
• Forensic Pathology
• Neuropathology
• Paediatric and Perinatal Pathology
• Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology (for dental trainees)

Training Pathways

The training pathway for a career in pathology in the UK depends on your chosen specialty or subspecialty. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Chemical Pathology:

If you’re interested in pure chemical pathology, you’ll start at ST1, which requires GMC registration and a valid CREST form.

To pursue metabolic medicine under chemical pathology, you can enter Internal Medicine Training (IMT) or Acute Care Common Stem Acute Medicine (ACCS-AM) training after obtaining GMC registration.

Specializing in metabolic medicine requires additional training and examinations, including the Chemical Pathology Stage A exam and FRCPath Parts 1 & 2 in Clinical Biochemistry.

2. Histopathology (Cellular Pathology):

Histopathology training starts at ST1, making it a run-through specialty. GMC registration is required.

Training takes about five years and includes exams such as the Histopathology Stage A exam and FRCPath Parts 1 & 2 in Histopathology.

You can also specialize in subspecialties such as forensic pathology, neuropathology, paediatric and perinatal pathology, among others.

3. Haematology:

Haematology training involves 2-3 years of core level training followed by 4-5 years of higher specialty training.

Core training can be in Internal Medicine Training (IMT) or Acute Care Common Stem – Acute Medicine (ACCS-AM).

Entering ST3 haematology training requires GMC registration, MRCP(UK) completion, and at least 24 months of clinical work experience.

The training includes an introduction to laboratory aspects of haematology, experience in blood transfusion, paediatric haematology, general haematology, haematological malignancy, and haemostasis and thrombosis.

Passing FRCPath Part 1 and Part 2 in Haematology is necessary.

4. Clinical Immunology:

Like haematology, clinical immunology involves 2-3 years of core-level training followed by 4-5 years of higher specialty training.

Core training can be in Internal Medicine Training (IMT), Acute Care Common Stem – Acute Medicine (ACCS-AM), or Level 1 Paediatrics training.

Training covers the diagnosis of immunodeficiency disorders, autoimmune conditions, and more.

Passing FRCPath Part 1 and Part 2 in Immunology is required.

5. Microbiology & Virology:

Both microbiology and virology are uncoupled specialties.

Training involves core level training (e.g., Internal Medicine Training, Acute Care Common Stem – AM, or Combined Infection Training) and higher specialty training.

Core training takes 2-3 years, and higher specialty training takes an additional 2 years.

Completing FRCPath Part 1 and Part 2 exams in Infection, Medical Microbiology, or Virology is necessary.

Related Subspecialties

IMGs should note that the pathway to a career in pathology includes:

• Obtaining GMC registration with a license to practice.
• Completing core level training or demonstrating equivalent competencies.
• Meeting specific entry criteria for each specialty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the training pathway in pathology in the UK is multifaceted, just like the specialty itself. IMGs have various options to specialize in different areas of pathology. For detailed information on the training pathway for each specialty, it’s recommended to refer to the official Royal College of Pathologists website. Best of luck with your career in pathology!