Postgraduate Surgical Training in the UK: the Trainees' Perspective
Anna Rose1,2,3, Noel Aruparayil3,4
1Canniesburn Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK.
The Indian Journal of Surgery
|September 20, 2021
Summary
Surgical training in the UK has evolved significantly over 20 years, facing challenges in recruitment and contracts. Technology and simulation, accelerated by COVID-19, are transforming postgraduate surgical education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Healthcare Systems
Background:
- UK surgical training has undergone substantial evolution over the past two decades.
- Efforts focus on enhancing training quality and ensuring patient safety amidst evolving challenges.
- Key issues include recruitment, junior doctor contracts, flexible working, and diversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reflect on the UK surgical trainee experience.
- To discuss successes and identify areas for improvement in postgraduate surgical training.
- To analyze the impact of technological advancements and the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical education.
Main Methods:
- Reflective analysis of the UK surgical trainee experience.
- Discussion of historical and current trends in surgical training.
- Examination of the integration of technology and simulation.
Main Results:
- Significant changes in recruitment, contracts, and working hours have impacted training.
- Increased focus on trainee wellbeing and the extended surgical team.
- Technology and simulation have become crucial, especially post-COVID-19, to address reduced operative exposure.
Conclusions:
- UK surgical training has seen dramatic changes, with notable successes and persistent challenges.
- Continuous adaptation is necessary to optimize the training program.
- Future improvements should address systemic issues and leverage technological advancements for effective surgical education.
