CPSP HSE Scholarship

The CPSP-HSE Scholarship is a collaborative initiative between the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP), the Health Service Executive (HSE), and the Forum of Postgraduate Training Bodies in Ireland. This scholarship offers Pakistani graduates an opportunity to complete part of their postgraduate training in Ireland, enhancing their medical skills and knowledge in emergency medicine.

Intake Period: The scholarship is announced in September for the following year's July intake. Candidates should not be in their final year of training to apply.

Structure

• Duration: 2-year program post-IMM.

• Roles: Start as a Senior House Officer (SHO); potential promotion to Registrar based on performance.

• Return Requirement: Trainees must return to Pakistan to complete exams and remaining training after 2 years.

Eligibility

• IMM Qualification: Must have passed IMM at the time of application.

• MRCEM Exam: Not mandatory but may enhance selection chances.

• English Proficiency: OET/IELTS required.

• Training Status: Must not be in the final year of training.

Hospitals

• Hospital Allocation: Managed by HSE and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI).

• Clinical Exposure: Varies by hospital, with compulsory attendance at RCSI EM workshop days for all IMG trainees.

Application

1. Announcement: Annually in September for the next July intake.

2. NOC Submission: Required from your training institute with the application.

3. IMC Registration: Obtain registration under the Irish Medical Council (Supervised Division).

   • Requirements: 12-month house job and PMDC registration.

4. Degree Verification: Via EPIC.

5. Visa Application: Apply once IMC registration is complete.

6. Travel Documents: Ensure you have a valid passport and CNIC.

7. Interview: Conducted at CPSP regional centers via Zoom, involving Irish consultants and HR representatives.

Accommodation

• Initial Stay: 7 days of accommodation provided by HSE upon arrival.

• Finding Accommodation: Recommended websites include daft.ie and rent.ie. Always visit in person before making payments to avoid scams.

Work

• Weekly Hours: 39 hours per week, typically over 4 days.

• Shift Rotations: 6-month rota, including 12 days of annual leave.

• Transport: Provided by most hospitals if shifts end late.

Lifestyle

• Community: Limited established Pakistani community, but many doctors in hospitals offer a support network.

• Food: Ample halal options available.

Pros

1. Expense Reimbursement: The bursary covers return travel to Ireland (up to €750), Irish Medical Council registration, and one week's accommodation and induction.

2. Initial Accommodation: Free for the first 7 days.

3. Recognition: CPSP-IMG trainee status with access to RCSI EM training days.

4. International Exposure: Opportunity to train in a different healthcare system.

5. Training Refunds: Eligible for refunds under HSE TSS/CCERS scheme for training days and exams.

Cons

1. Adjustment Period: Initial transition from Pakistan can be challenging.

2. Return Obligation: Must return to Pakistan after 2 years to complete training.

3. Work Restriction: Prohibited from working in HSE hospitals for 12 months post-training.

4. Monthly Fees: Must pay an admin fee to CPSP for 2 years.

Reference

• CPSP International Training Program

• Ireland Pathway - EM Gurus