Evaluating anti-bullying training in surgery: surgeons' perceptions from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand

To evaluate how surgeons in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand perceive the effectiveness of the Operating with Respect (OWR) face-to-face training program in reducing workplace bullying.

A cross-sectional survey examined the perceived effectiveness of the Royal College of Surgeons' (RACS) face-to-face OWR training and complementary interventions in reducing workplace bullying in surgical settings. The sample included supervisory surgeons, RACS committee members, and targeted educators. The survey instrument had 35 questions, including five related to the research question. In December 2020, the survey was distributed by RACS to all surgeons who undertook OWR training between April 2017 and December 2019. Likert scales and coded free text responses were used to explore the effectiveness of face-to-face OWR training and other interventions included in the 2015 RACS Action Plan.

Of the 756 surveys sent, 252 were received. The face-to-face OWR training program was rated as moderately effective. RACS's overarching approach to anti-bullying was almost equally important, highlighting the need to consider a broader ecosystem of reform.

This study finds the RACS full-day anti-bullying training moderately effective in reducing bullying in surgical workplaces. However, enhancing its impact requires a sustained, multi-faceted strategy, including broader policy reforms, accountability measures, and cultural changes, to foster a long-term respectful environment in surgical settings.