The Great Idea February 2003
Modernising Medical Careers, a policy document outlining the principles for reform of postgraduate medical education is published. It confirms plans for a foundation programme and specialist training. Further frameworks are put in place over the following two years. In 2005 the first cohort of F1 doctors start placements. The application process for specialty training is agreed in August 2006.

Open for business Monday 22nd January
MTAS opens the online application process. Concern is already raised over the format of questions and the inability to submit a CV.

Computer meltdown Friday 2nd February
Problems with the MTAS computer system lead to many applicants being unable to access the site. Deadline for applications is extended twice and finally closes at 9am on Monday.

First interviews offered Friday 2nd February
Thousands of doctors who expected to be short-listed panic when not granted first round interviews. Royal Colleges express concern over the selection criteria. BMA suffers criticism for lack of action. Remedy UK is formed by junior doctors to fight MTAS and plans large public demonstration. Government vows to press on with selection process.

Thousands hit the streets Saturday 17th March
10,000 junior doctors, supporters and Mums4Medics hit Westminster and Glasgow to call for the scrapping of MTAS. Government says it recognises concerns but reaffirms commitment to the current selection process.

Everyone offered an interview Wednesday 4th April
MTAS review group backtracks and guarantees all doctors an interview for their first-choice post.

Personal info found online Tuesday 26th April
Channel 4 reveals personal details of foundation MTAS applicants, including race and sexual orientation, are freely available online. MTAS website suspended.

MTAS scrapped Tuesday 15th May
Patricia Hewitt announces scrapping of MTAS. Interviews that have taken place and those already scheduled for Round 1 will stand. Round 2 will be conducted at a local deanery level.

Remedy loses high court battle Wednesday 23rd May
The legal fight against the Department of Health calling for the interviews carried out so far only to count towards temporary appointments, not substantive posts, fails. DH accepts legal cost award leaving Remedy with a £45K bill.

Round 1 jobs offer Early June
Final job offers are to be made to applicants with remaining posts to be offered in Round 2.

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