Assessing and improving the knowledge of orthopaedic foundation-year doctors

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Orthopaedics

Background:

• The UK's Modernising Medical Careers initiative mandates foundation-year doctors gain broad exposure, including specialties like orthopaedics.
• Current foundation training differs significantly from previous medical education models.
• The General Medical Council (GMC) has updated undergraduate medical curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adequacy of current foundation-year doctor training in orthopaedics.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a targeted educational intervention.

Main Methods:

• Junior doctors completed an initial knowledge assessment based on consultant expectations.
• A 2-week focused orthopaedic training program was delivered.
• A post-training assessment was conducted to measure knowledge improvement.

Main Results:

• Initial generic training was inadequate to meet orthopaedic consultant expectations.
• The focused teaching program led to significant improvements in knowledge.
• Junior doctors reported increased confidence and enjoyment in orthopaedics post-training.

Conclusions:

• Foundation-year doctors benefit from targeted educational interventions in specialties like orthopaedics.
• Focused training enhances junior doctors' competence and engagement.
• The study highlights the need for specialized training within foundation programs.