Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) is a varied specialty primarily related to the treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Overview
A large part of the work is involved in the clinical management of patients with HIV infection at all stages of disease, including inpatient management. The work involves a number of non-infectious medical genital problems such as dermatoses. A number of GUM departments also offer other sexual health services such as contraception, colposcopy (for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical dysplasia) and sexual dysfunction. Doctors in this specialty work closely with colleagues in public health medicine, infectious diseases, clinical microbiology and obstetrics/gynaecology. They also work with marginalised groups for whom they frequently advocate as they may not have a voice of their own. Doctors in this specialty see lots of younger people. It is very rewarding to see patients (particularly our HIV positive patients) respond quickly to treatment. Also, as a specialty, GUM is fast changing and never boring.
Higher Specialist Training (HST)
Requirements
You must have completed Basic Specialist Training in the relevant specialty (or an equivalent programme) by the start date for HST. Please note that not all BST programmes offer consideration of equivalence.
You must have achieved a relevant postgraduate qualification such as MRCPI in General Medicine, General Paediatrics or Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Please note: we have reverted to the previous regulations regarding the examination which were in place before COVID-19. That is, all HST candidates must have successfully passed their MRCPI Clinical Examination relevant to their speciality before their HST interview date. There are no exceptions to this requirement.
You must be currently or previously registered on one of the divisions of the Irish Medical Council, or provide proof of eligibility for registration You must have proof of competency in the English language in line with HSE specifications.
You must have demonstrated an aptitude for, and an interest in, that specialty.