Curricular changes and interim posts during Covid-19: graduates' perspectives

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Graduate Preparedness
• COVID-19 Pandemic Impact

Background:

• UK medical schools implemented early graduation for final-year students as Foundation interim Year 1 (FiY1) doctors.
• Curricula and assessment amendments were made during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an opportunity for evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore graduate perspectives on the FiY1 implementation.
• To assess how course structure changes affected self-reported preparedness for medical practice.

Main Methods:

• Surveys (n=45) and semi-structured interviews (n=7) with FiY1 doctors from two UK medical schools.
• Quantitative and thematic analysis of Likert scale, free-text responses, and interview data.
• Investigated communication effectiveness from governing health bodies.

Main Results:

• Graduates who completed modified practical and written exams reported higher legitimacy and preparedness.
• A significant majority (91.1%) believed scheduled assistantships would have improved preparedness.
• 44% of respondents felt governing health bodies communicated insufficiently before their work commenced.

Conclusions:

• FiY1 implementation was generally well-received, though assistantships may serve a similar function in non-crisis periods.
• Effective communication from medical schools and governing bodies is crucial for preparing students, especially during crises.
• Final examinations enhance feelings of preparedness and legitimacy, relevant to current assessment structures.