Investigating prospective Genito-urinary medicine trainees’ perspectives on applying to and entering Internal Medicine Training: Barriers and opportunities for support

ObjectivesGenito-urinary medicine (GUM) in the UK is experiencing a recruitment crisis, with persistently low higher specialty training (HST) fill rates. As completion of Internal Medicine Training (IMT) stage 1 is required before GUM HST, we aimed to explore prospective applicants' understanding of applications and identify how the Student and Trainee Association for Sexual Health and HIV (STASHH) could provide support.MethodsAn online evaluation was distributed via STASHH's social media and ambassador networks to medical students and pre-specialty doctors interested in GUM. Respondents provided information on training stage, familiarity with IMT applications, self-assessed scores, and perceived barriers.ResultsOf 59 respondents, 56 were eligible for analysis. Most (86%) were considering IMT, but 73% reported the IMT requirements deterred them from GUM. 34% self-scored above the 2024 interview threshold. Gaps included postgraduate qualifications (83%), teaching (70%), and publications (58%). Barriers included research access, time and financial pressures, lack of mentorship, and perceived lack of understanding of the research process. These barriers disproportionately affect those from widening participation backgrounds.ConclusionsDifficulties in IMT stage 1 recruitment are likely to present a significant barrier to adequate GUM HST fill rates. STASHH can address this through improved access to mentorship, teaching, research opportunities, and clearer portfolio guidance.