Peer-mentoring junior surgical trainees in the United Kingdom: a pilot program
1Department of General Surgery, Queen's Hospital, Romford, United Kingdom. paul.vulliamy@gmail.com
Medical Education Online
|April 19, 2013
Summary
A pilot peer-mentoring program for junior surgical trainees was feasible and well-received. This core surgical training initiative showed high engagement and provided valuable guidance, suggesting potential for broader implementation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Mentorship Programs
Background:
- Peer-mentoring is gaining traction in healthcare but lacks formal integration into surgical postgraduate training.
- This study addresses the gap by evaluating a peer-mentor scheme for junior surgical trainees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a peer-mentor scheme within UK core surgical training.
- To gather feedback for potential improvements and wider adoption.
Main Methods:
- Junior surgical trainees in their first year of core surgical training (CST) were paired with second-year CST mentors.
- An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to assess scheme participation and trainee perceptions.
Main Results:
- 18 trainees participated, with 12 (67%) responding to the survey; all made contact with mentors/mentees.
- Mentees received guidance on examinations (83%), CV development (67%), and assessments (67%).
- All respondents viewed the scheme positively, suggesting structured meetings and increased mentor engagement for enhancement.
Conclusions:
- The pilot peer-mentoring scheme was positively received by junior surgical trainees.
- The findings support the consideration of expanding this initiative.
- Further rigorous evaluation of the peer-mentoring scheme's value is recommended.
