Training

General Practice Registrars

We are an approved GP training practice on the Durham Tees Valley GP Training Scheme. Dr Mendis is the approved GP Trainer and supports the GP Trainee. 

GP Trainees (referred to as GP Registrars) are fully qualified Doctors who have completed at least 2 years in hospital training. They work under supervision while gaining experience and teaching in our practice. They are deliberately given longer appointment times so they can develop their consultation skills. 

The career pathway to becoming a GP starts with a 5 year course at University gaining a degree in medicine then two foundation years of hospital training then at least another 3 years of GP speciality training usually 18 months in hospital and 18 months in approved training practice such as Park Lane Surgery. The training GP's are know as ST1, ST2 and ST3 depending on their stage of training. ST1 trainees come to Park Lane Surgery for 6 months then have 18 months in hospital; and return for at least 12 months as ST£. During these 3 yeatrs they have to sit further exams, complete a series of assessments with thier trainer and finally the RCA exam whioch involves submitting 13 suitable videos to the Royal College of General Practice examiners to assess. If successful they become MRCGP (member of the Royal College of General Practitioners) 

As part of their training the trainees are sometimes required to video consultations to develop their communication skills. Your consent will alwasy be sought both before the consultation to ensure that you agree to the recording and also afterwards to ensure you are willing to allow it to be viewed for teaching or exam purposes. All recordins are deleted after being used for teaching purposes. 

Medical Students

The Practice is a community teaching practice for Newcastle Medical School. The Medical Students spoend time in General Practice during thier 5 years of training. 

With supervision from a GP or Nurse, Medical Students may, with your consent, join your consultation. This is the way they learn to become good Doctors and understand patient viewson thier illness and care. The 4th and 5th Year Students may also see patients on their own, closely supervised by a GP. We really appreciate your help with learning.