Training in general (internal) medicine alone.

A freestanding training programme for general (internal) medicine (G(I)M) alone was established in the Oxford deanery four years ago. The programme was designed to provide three years' training post-MRCP for specialist registrars, selected in open competition, and covers all aspects of acute medical care including four months in intensive care. The first four to complete training have achieved consultant level appointments. The programme also attracted a number of trainees who wished to obtain appropriate qualifications in high dependency and critical care medicine. The programme offers the opportunity to create specialists properly trained in G(I)M who will be able to continue to provide an important service as specialists or practising as consultants in G(I)M alone.