Peer mentoring for core medical trainees: uptake and impact

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Professional Development
• Healthcare Training

Background:

• Core medical training involves significant challenges for early-career doctors.
• Peer mentoring offers a potential avenue for support and skill development.
• Existing formal mentoring programs may not fully address trainee needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and adoption of a peer mentoring initiative for core medical trainees.
• To assess the impact of the scheme on both mentors and mentees.
• To identify areas for improvement in peer mentoring programs for medical professionals.

Main Methods:

• A peer mentoring scheme was implemented for first and second-year core medical trainees.
• Participants underwent training and were matched into mentor-mentee pairs.
• Questionnaires assessed the impact on trainee behavior and outlook at the beginning and end of the year.

Main Results:

• 58% of trainees participated, forming 21 mentor-mentee pairs.
• Participating trainees reported positive experiences and acquisition of transferable skills.
• Barriers to participation included time constraints and desire for more senior mentors.

Conclusions:

• The peer mentoring scheme was well-received and beneficial for participants.
• This initiative provides an effective method for supporting junior doctors.
• Enhancements in mentor training and accessibility are recommended for future programs.