Seeking improved means of recruiting psychiatrists appears to be only part of the solution to the present shortfall of consultant psychiatrists. Another aspect of the problem, as mentioned in Storer's editorial (Reference Storer2002), is the inability of psychiatry to retain trainees.

One potential factor contributing to the haemorrhage of trainees is lack of success at the membership examinations. Is it possible that this situation could be reappraised? It seems unfortunate that trainees who have already committed themselves to a career in psychiatry should have their prospects brought to an abrupt halt. Perhaps I am not alone in having had the experience of working with competent and enthusiastic people who found themselves in this predicament.

One can anticipate that many will express concerns about ‘a lowering of standards’. But surely, affording people extra time to reach the desired standard is not the equivalent of requesting a reduced pass mark. Furthermore, if trainees avail themselves of additional opportunities and are ultimately successful, would it not be the case that the very qualities displayed — patience, forbearance and persistence — would serve them well in a career in psychiatry?