As a new initiative to improve patient care and implement safer medical practices within the National Health Service (NHS), Modernising Medical Careers (MMC) introduced the Foundation Years Programme in August 2005. The objective is to provide a more structured and comprehensive training programme for [FY 1 and 2] Doctors moving from undergraduate medical school to postgraduate specialty training.
The General Medical Council (GMC) has outlined the Foundation programme and its standards in the document, 'The New Doctor 2005'. The programme has been restructured to be more clinically and patient focused.
Foundation Year 1 has now replaced the Pre-Registration House Officer (PRHO) role and upon completion, candidates will obtain full registration from the GMC.
Foundation Year 2 has now replaced the Senior House Officer (SHO) role. FY2s must demonstrate that they are capable of delivering high quality patient care without supervision. Upon completion, FY2 are required to be equipped with the knowledge and skills for commencing Specialist Training.
There are 4 main assessments Foundation Years 1 & 2 trainees will undertake through the course of their training. They include:
More information about the Foundation Years assessments
Foundation Years Training © 2008