| |
 |
'I joined the Oxford District GP training scheme in 2006 to do a one-year standalone Registrar post, and whilst it is right to view unqualified supporting statements with some scepticism, I can happily state that the scheme worked really well for me. Our training as registrars in General Practice is rightly the envy of the other specialties. One day a week in organised teaching is a privilege that other trainees would love to have, and is certainly far superior to the treatment I’ve received in either of the other two specialties I’ve worked in at Registrar level. There is focus not just on relevant topics and adult learning, but also on your personal development. The time available allows you to discuss any problems that may be an issue, and also to share any useful and enjoyable experiences you have had. You quickly build up a feeling of being in a team with your colleagues, and this can be invaluable with regards to exams and work, but also beyond your registrar year. The programme directors were always happy to help and to accommodate our views and suggestions. They only had to rein us in a few times during the more emotive debates! |
I was lucky enough to go on to doing 6 months as a Senior Registrar at the same practice. My specialist area was Medical Ethics and Resource Allocation. From there I have gone on to gain a partnership in Cheltenham, and I think it is due in no small part to what I’ve learnt on the Oxford scheme that I am doing what I am now. So, overall, I can give my unqualified support to the scheme and would heartily recommend it to anyone pursuing General Practice training. '
Paul Crouchman
 |
Veronica Reschreiter also completed her GP training in 2007 and went on to work in Australia....hence the photo.
'The GP training scheme in Oxford District (VTS as it was then) was very enjoyable and covered a broad range of subjects. It gave the opportunity for the GP registrars to direct their learning with plenty of peer support. I particularly enjoyed the release days when we met colleagues from Banbury, as this gave the opportunity to compare practices and realise we all have the same problems - uncertainty, time keeping, videos etc. I also enjoyed the guest speakers from various specialities: dermatology, joint injections, psychology, endocrine-thyroid are but a few. I do not think we realised how lucky we were to have this organised for us until looking back with hindsight now.
|
The only part of the VTS which I didn't find helpful was the group sessions where we would go round and find out how everybody was getting on in practice. This was OK for me once every three months but not more frequently. I think that the co-ordinators are very approachable and if there were any major dilemmas I certainly would not have hesitated to talk to them about them.
Finally if I had to choose any VTS in England again I would choose Oxford hands down...the same goes for my practice. It was a great experience for me and I am still thankful for the opportunity I was given to join the Oxford District VTS.'
|
|
