Portfolio Pathway assessors
The College is responsible for evaluating Portfolio Pathway (formerly Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration [CESR]) applications for doctors applying to the Specialist Register in the following specialties:
- chemical pathology
- diagnostic neuropathology
- forensic histopathology
- histopathology
- medical microbiology
- medical virology
- paediatric pathology.
We are currently looking for assessors in these specialties, but especially histopathology and medical microbiology. Portfolio Pathway assessors determine whether or not each Portfolio Pathway applicant has the relevant knowledge, skills and experience (KSE) in their specialty and either recommend applicants for entry to the Specialist Register, or outline what more needs to be done to meet the KSE.
Each application must be processed within 36 working days by the College in order to meet GMC deadlines. Portfolio Pathway assessors receive support from the Training team who will provide guidance and administrative support to complete the recommendations, as well as from the Credentials Panel Chairs who are experienced Portfolio Pathway assessors.
What does the role entail?
Portfolio Pathway assessors ensure that:
- applications are evaluated according to the guidelines set by the GMC and the College’s specialty-specific guidance
- the evaluation (including discussions by teleconference call) is conducted in a fair and transparent manner and in accordance with relevant legislation, the current process and advice
- the patients' best interests are protected, and that the applicant receives a fair assessment of their application in accordance with relevant legislation, the current process and advice.
It is important for an assessor to ensure that the knowledge, skills and experience are maintained as the decision to recommend a Portfolio Pathway will allow the applicant to be eligible for appointment to a substantive consultant post in the NHS. Training will be provided for the role and can be undertaken virtually.
Why should I apply?
The role of Portfolio Pathway Assessor offers several valuable opportunities which include:
- a chance to be actively involved in ensuring the maintenance of high professional standards in the pathology workforce
- contributing to increasing the pool of appropriately qualified pathology specialists in the UK
- sharing of good practice with colleagues throughout the country
- use of the learning experience to claim CPD points.
What is the person specification?
Please see the role description below.
What's the time commitment?
Portfolio Pathway assessors should expect to commit up to 6 days a year (approximately 0.25 PAs). Please note that the role is not remunerated and that this is intended only to be a guide to the time assessors may spend on this work.
How do I apply?
If you would like to apply, please send an email outlining how you meet the person specification, along with an abbreviated CV to: [email protected]