Portfolio Pathway (formerly CESR) Genitourinary Medicine
The Portfolio Pathway, formerly known as CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration), is an alternative route to specialist registration for doctors who haven’t followed a traditional UK training programme. In Genitourinary Medicine (GUM), this pathway is a crucial opportunity for experienced professionals—especially international medical graduates (IMGs)—to demonstrate their equivalence to UK-trained consultants.
This blog will guide you through the Portfolio Pathway process in Genitourinary Medicine, helping you understand key requirements, potential challenges, and where to seek expert support.
What Is the Portfolio Pathway?
The Portfolio Pathway allows non-CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) doctors to gain specialist registration by submitting a portfolio of evidence demonstrating they have achieved the competencies outlined in the relevant specialty curriculum.
In Genitourinary Medicine, this means meeting the standards of the 2022 Genitourinary Medicine Curriculum, developed by the Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board (JRCPTB) and approved by the GMC.
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Who Is It For?
The pathway is particularly suitable for:
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IMGs with significant experience in Genitourinary Medicine.
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UK doctors who took non-training posts or switched specialties.
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Consultants overseas who want to practise in the UK as GUM specialists.
Key Components of the Portfolio Pathway in GUM
To succeed in the Portfolio Pathway, you’ll need to demonstrate equivalence in all key areas of the Genitourinary Medicine curriculum. The table below outlines the major domains and what evidence you should prepare:
|
Curriculum Domain |
Examples of Required Evidence |
|
Clinical Knowledge & Skills |
Case logs, clinic letters, audit reports, specialty-specific procedures, MDT participation |
|
Sexual Health & HIV Medicine |
Management of STIs, PrEP/PEP cases, HIV clinics, patient follow-ups |
|
Leadership & Teamwork |
Leading clinics, rota management, clinical governance involvement |
|
Quality Improvement & Audit |
Completed audit cycles, QI projects, implementation of change, impact assessments |
|
Research & Teaching |
Presentations, teaching feedback, published work, supervision of trainees |
|
Professionalism & Communication |
Patient feedback, colleague feedback (MSF), complaint handling, communication workshops |
|
Health Promotion & Public Health |
Involvement in outreach services, health promotion campaigns, collaborative work with public health bodies |
Application Process: Step-by-Step
|
Step |
Details |
|
1. Check Eligibility |
You must have relevant GUM experience, usually 6+ years post-graduation |
|
2. Map Your Evidence |
Align your experience with the 2022 GUM Curriculum |
|
3. Prepare Documentation |
Collect evidence: appraisals, audits, clinic letters, teaching feedback |
|
4. Submit Application |
Apply via GMC Online, pay the application fee |
|
5. GMC Assessment |
Your portfolio is assessed by GUM experts and the GMC panel |
|
6. Outcome |
Successful applicants are entered onto the Specialist Register |
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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
|
Challenge |
Solution |
|
Lack of UK-specific experience |
Consider working in UK locum or SAS GUM posts |
|
Evidence poorly mapped to curriculum |
Use structured templates and tagging systems |
|
Insufficient documentation |
Maintain detailed logs, secure supervisor reports, archive anonymised records |
|
Understanding what the GMC expects |
Consult experts like us at CESR Portfolio for tailored support |
Top Tips for Success
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Start Early: Mapping your evidence takes time. Begin documenting from day one in a relevant role.
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Use the GUM 2022 Curriculum: Structure your portfolio strictly according to each domain.
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Demonstrate Reflective Practice: Include reflective logs on complex cases, audits, and learning points.
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Gather Feedback: Patient and peer feedback is essential to demonstrate professional behaviours.
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Work with Experts: The process is complex—getting professional help can save time and reduce stress.
Why Choose Us?
At CESR Portfolio, we specialise in guiding doctors through the Portfolio Pathway in Genitourinary Medicine. Our team includes GMC reviewers, NHS consultants, and CESR-successful doctors who understand the system inside out.
We offer:
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Portfolio mapping services
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Evidence review and feedback
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Mock interviews and preparation
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Mentorship from GUM specialists
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Curriculum guidance tailored to your background
Whether you’re just starting your journey or stuck mid-process, we’re here to help you get across the line.
Final Thoughts
The Portfolio Pathway (formerly CESR) in Genitourinary Medicine is an achievable route to specialist registration for motivated and experienced clinicians. With the right preparation and support, you can demonstrate your competence and take your career to the next level.
Let CESR Portfolio be your expert partner in success.
Disclaimer
This blog post provides general information about the CESR pathway . It is not a substitute for the official GMC guidance. Always refer to the GMC website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.
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