GPs will be able to progress their studies without leaving the island under a new agreement with the North West Medical Deanery that lets them sit exams here.

Since 2015, all GP training has been provided on island except for two exams which must be sat in the UK - but border restrictions currently mean doctors must self-isolate for 14 days after each trip.

Under the new arrangement GPs will be able to sit the initial exam at University College Isle of Man’s online test centre in Douglas - avoiding the need to isolate.

Dr Alex Allinson, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: ’I’m very grateful to the staff at UCM who have worked together with our NHS to support this development.’

training

The three-year training programme is available to doctors who have already completed both their medical degree and two years of hospital training.

David Ashford, Minister for Health and Social Care said: ’This is great news for GP practices, doctors and patients.

’We usually have three doctors start this training each year and it is helping with long-term plans in relation to on-island recruitment and retention.’