What is time Out of Programme (OOP)?

When a doctor in training takes time out of their approved programme, this is called out of programme (OOP). There are currently 5 types of OOPs:

OOPT – out of programme Training. This will be used towards the award of a CCT and must have prospective GMC approval. This is for clinical training which isn’t part of your training programme. This will normally be a maximum of one year. In exceptional circumstances it can be up to two years. It will not normally result in a delay to CCT date.

OOPE – out of programme experience. This will not be used towards the award of a CCT. OOPE will normally be for one year in total and may be extend up to two years with the agreement of the Postgraduate Dean.

OOPR – out of programme research. Time spent out of programme for research purposes may be recognised towards the award of CCT where the relevant curriculum permits this. OOPR should not normally exceed three years but may be extended to 4 years with the prospective agreement of the Postgraduate Dean.

OOPC – out of programme career break. Designated and planned time out of programme to pursue other interests (e.g. domestic responsibilities, work in industry, developing talents in other areas and entrepreneurship). Applications are considered on individual merits and are normally limited to 1 year. OOPC should not be used to cover sickness.

OOPP - out of programme Pause –allows trainees to step out of formal for a period of time – currently up to one year - and have any competencies gained whilst out of training assessed upon their return. This may allow trainees to minimise the impact on the time out of programme has on their CCT date. OOPP can now be undertaken in non patient facing, and non UK based posts.

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