The selection of GP trainees in the West Midlands: audit of assessment centre scores by ethnicity and country of qualification

Abstract

The new regional, centralized system of selecting GP trainees in the West Midlands aims to be fair and non-discriminatory in the processes of recruiting the most suitable candidates and allocating the successful candidates to their preferred posts. This paper provides an audit of the achievements of all (n = 165) the candidates in the October 2000 selection round. Initial analysis suggests that gender is not a significant factor in determining outcomes. In this paper, the data are examined with respect to candidates' ethnic background and their country of qualification. Two levels of analysis are possible, based on average 'success' or placement rates, and average scores achieved at each stage of the selection process. The analysis, using one-sided significance tests, suggests that White candidates, and those qualifying in the UK, are more likely to succeed in the selection process. Possible explanations are offered from a more detailed interrogation of the selection criteria. Finally, the implications for the next selection round are discussed in the light of these findings.