28 October 2025
In response to the first phase of the Medical Training Review (MTR) into postgraduate training of newly qualified medics, published by NHS England last week (24 October 2025), Dean of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Professor Simon Carley said: “The Royal College of Emergency Medicine welcomes the publication of Phase 1 of the Medical Training Review (MTR). The recommendations in this phase highlight the challenges faced by both our Resident Doctor and Educator workforce, issues that are long recognised across the profession.
“The College acknowledges that Phase 1 is primarily diagnostic, but it provides valuable insight into where medical training currently stands and the direction in which it must evolve.
“We appreciate that striking the right balance between greater flexibility and increased career predictability will not be straightforward. Nonetheless, the College is fully committed to working collaboratively to find solutions that serve both our doctors and patients.
“We are pleased to note that the next phase of the review will adopt a four-nation approach, ensuring equitable benefit for all resident doctors across the UK. A highly skilled and well-supported workforce is central to improving patient outcomes, and we share this goal wholeheartedly.
“A significant proportion of our EM workforce comprises of Locally Employed and SAS doctors. We recognise the challenges to entering and access to training for these groups, and while initiatives such as the Defined Route of Entry into Emergency Medicine (DREEM) pathway were designed to recognise prior experience gained, we are committed to working on solutions to reduce the barriers that limit progression and opportunity.
“The MTR’s focus on holistic training and patient-centred care is strongly aligned with the College’s vision. We are also encouraged by the commitment to maintaining a strong Resident Doctor voice throughout the forthcoming phases of work.
“Too often, education and training provision have been deprioritised within healthcare systems, frequently falling to the end of organisational agendas. The MTR rightly places training back at the top, where it belongs. To deliver high-quality care, clinicians must be supported with protected time for training, development, and examination.
“The College remains fully committed to engaging actively and constructively with Phase 2 of the review. We recognise that this next stage will pose significant challenges for all involved, but we are determined to play our part in shaping a sustainable, fair, and future-focused training system.”