Neurology

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It is currently an excellent time to consider a career in neurology. The specialty is extremely varied and a growth area, given the increasing demand for neurologists both acutely (liason neurology, acute stroke) and in the management of chronic neurological disorders.

Neurology - trainee characteristics

Neurology will particularly suit trainees who:

are innovative
have good clinical skills (that combine a good knowledge of anatomy to good listening skills)
are able to work with a measure of independence.

Summary of the specialty

The specialty of neurology is changing rapidly. Traditionally, neurology had been thought of as an intellectual pursuit, concerned with the diagnosis of rare conditions of the nervous system; but the advent of accessible imaging, and the increasing emergence of potential therapies, has led to neurologists' involvement with the treatment and on-going care of disorders which are in fact very common such as stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

A good clinical neurologist must have a good general medical background - and so full MRCP is an essential requirement to start at ST3 level.

Research opportunities

There are plenty of opportunities for research, and many trainees will undertake a period of research towards a higher degree as part of their neurological training (as an out-of-programme experience).

Neurology in demand

There has recently been a rapid increase in numbers of consultant neurologists and it is likely that new posts will continue to be developed (even in spite of the current NHS financial climate, such is the demand for specialist neurological care).

Most district general hospitals will require at least two neurologists, responsible for GP referrals and seeing inpatient referrals from other specialists. Furthermore, the National Stroke Strategy has increased the need for specialists, including neurologists, with expertise in the care of patients with neurovascular disease. In 2011, there were four applicants overall for every NTN vacancy.

View from a consultant neurologist

Dr David Nicholl is a consultant neurologist in Birmingham; he tells us why he was attracted to neurology, and why he thinks it's 'the best job in the world!'

Click to view

Applying to ST3 neurology

All applications to ST3 neurology posts in 2012 will be processed via the single cascadable application (SCA) model. Applicants need only complete and submit one single application form, stating (up to) four preferences of deanery/UoA at which they would wish to be considered.

Following the close of the application window, under the SCA model applications will be allocated to deaneries/UoAs based upon the candidates' stated preferences, the scores awarded to application forms, and the available interview capacity at deaneries/UoAs.

For more information on applying to neurology, please visit the recruitment process section of this website.