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Kelly M, Chiang Y, Corte-Real Houlihan M, Haylock-Vize P, Larsen C, Lilis L, Maki S, Milt KM, Shee J, Spoone L, Warre M. 959 Undertaking Core Surgical Training Less Than Full Time: A Qualitative Study of Experiences. Br J Surg 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab134.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
The Royal College of Surgeons identifies Less Than Full Time Training (LTFT) as a key factor in attracting excellent candidates at Core level. Previous evaluations of LTFT have, however, focused on ST3 and beyond. This study focuses on Core Surgical Training (CST), to determine how well it is delivering for LTFT trainees.
Method
Participants undertaking any part of CST LTFT were eligible. An electronic, self-administered questionnaire was accessed by participants.
Results
There were 11 participants. The majority (55%) rated the information available, which often related to more senior trainees, as poor. A third reported it ‘very difficult’ to arrange a LTFT training post. A significant proportion felt their access to operative experience was decreased and 45% reported feeling less confident. Positive aspects were improved work-life balance and being able to maintain a surgical career with a family. Suggestions for improvements included normalising LTFT in surgery to reduce stigma, having dedicated LTFT TPDs, clear pathways, and longer rotations.
Conclusions
Training LTFT offers many benefits – not least, increasing workforce diversity. However, for many, training LTFT at Core level produces additional stress, work and stigma. If the surgical community is serious about maintaining an excellent, diverse workforce, these issues should be tackled sooner rather than later.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kelly
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Y Chiang
- Croydon University Hospital NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - C Larsen
- Northumbria Healthcare Foundation Trust, North Tyneside, United Kingdom
| | - L Lilis
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - S Maki
- The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - K M Milt
- NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - J Shee
- South Devon and Torbay Foundation Trust, Torbay, United Kingdom
| | - L Spoone
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - M Warre
- Lister Hospital, East and North Herts NHS Trust, Stevenage, United Kingdom
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