Portfolio Pathway (formerly CESR) Genitourinary Medicine

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:

  • IMGs with significant experience in Genitourinary Medicine.

  • UK doctors who took non-training posts or switched specialties.

  • 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

  1. Start Early: Mapping your evidence takes time. Begin documenting from day one in a relevant role.

  2. Use the GUM 2022 Curriculum: Structure your portfolio strictly according to each domain.

  3. Demonstrate Reflective Practice: Include reflective logs on complex cases, audits, and learning points.

  4. Gather Feedback: Patient and peer feedback is essential to demonstrate professional behaviours.

  5. 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:

  • Portfolio mapping services

  • Evidence review and feedback

  • Mock interviews and preparation

  • Mentorship from GUM specialists

  • 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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