Short-listing for orthopaedic specialist registrar posts--what is important?
BACKGROUND
Competition for specialist registrar (SpR) posts in orthopaedics is high. The aim of the current study was to provide evidence-based advice for applicants applying for SpR posts in orthopaedics.


METHODS
The short-listing forms of 273 applicants for orthopaedic SpR posts in South Thames (West) were reviewed. The experience of short-listed candidates was compared with those that were not.


RESULTS
We have shown a high chance of being short-listed between 5 and 6 years after qualification with a sharp fall off either side of this. It is clear that a wide range of appropriate experience is more important than high volume and low quality experience in orthopaedics alone.


CONCLUSIONS
Candidates who plan ahead and gain a broad experience have a better chance of progressing in an orthopaedic career. Good, early career advice is essential to achieve this.
Nielsen
Dominic M
DM
Department of Orthopaedics, Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, Surrey, UK. domnielsen@hotmail.com
Ricketts
David M
DM
D002322:Career Mobility; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D007586:Job Application; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000193:education*; D010560:Personnel Selection / Q000379:methods*; D013997:Time Factors