Investigating inequalities of study leave in the UK foundation programme

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Doctoral Training
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• The UK Foundation Programme (FP) is crucial for transitioning medical graduates to specialty training.
• Study leave is a key opportunity for Foundation Doctors (FDs) to enhance competitiveness.
• Regional variations in study leave policies exist despite national guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare study leave provisions across UK Foundation Schools.
• To identify geographical discrepancies in study leave allowances and funding.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 2024-2025 study leave guidelines from various Foundation Schools.
• Survey data collected from Foundation Doctors regarding their respective school's policies.
• Independent verification of collected data by two authors.

Main Results:

• All Foundation Schools adhere to minimum Health Education England (HEE) study leave guidelines.
• Significant differences observed in taster day allowances (5 vs. 10 days).
• Leave for specialty exams, conferences, and courses primarily available in Foundation Year 2 (FY2), with limited FY1 access.
• Study budgets varied, with London offering up to £1,000, while some regions offered funding only exceptionally.

Conclusions:

• Foundation Schools comply with HEE study leave outlines, but significant geographical disparities persist.
• Limited access to study leave in FY1 and funding variations may hinder FDs' specialty applications.
• Discrepancies highlight a shortfall in opportunities for early-career doctors, potentially affecting career progression.