For trainees whom have completed ST1/CT1, and/or have significant surgical experience, there is an option for early eligibility to ST3 applications by having a consultant in the specialty complete a CREHST form for the trainee. This replaces completion of CT2/ST2 and allows the trainee to apply to ST3 early. This is to enable trainees whom already have experience beyond what would be expected to be achieved at the end of ST2/CT2, owing to having taken time out of training or training abroad, to enter or re-enter training at a level appropriate for them.

This is relatively rare in other surgical specialties, where it is chiefly employed by international applicants, but owing to many OMFS trainees working whilst undertaking their second degree, it is not uncommon for UK OMFS trainees to use CREHST as part of the training pathway.

In order to quality for CREHST, a trainee must evidence completion of core competencies taken from the ISCP Core Surgical Training curriculum. Do note that the form states that progressing through CREHST means a trainee is only eligible for CESR and not CCT - this is no longer accurate and trainees whom employ CREHST are still eligible for CCT.

Form:

Certificate of Readiness to Enter Higher Surgical Training 2021