Report on the Training of Specialists in Mental Deficiency

(PREPARED BY A SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE MENTAL DEFICIENCY SECTION OF THE ROYAL MEDICO-PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION)

35. The Sub-Committee make the following recommendations:

(a) The training of specialists in Mental Deficiency should be based on Psychiatry.

(b) The training should begin with at least six months' whole-time work in an approved hospital, unit or department for mental illness.

(c) A minimum of five years' full-time experience should be gained in Mental Deficiency, of which at least three years should be in the hospital service.

(d) The postgraduate qualification should ideally combine an examination in all aspects of Psychiatry with one in Mental Deficiency, the latter being set and conducted by practising specialists in the field to a high standard. It is hoped that the new higher qualification will fulfil this requirement.

(e) The intending specialist should be encouraged to obtain an M.D. degree by presenting a thesis on a topic relevant to the speciality.

(f) Training facilities should be improved by the setting up of formal organized postgraduate courses as encouraged by H.M. (64) 69.

(g) Hospitals providing training posts should be required to demonstrate that their clinical practice and facilities are adequate for the discharge of their educational responsibilities.