Longitudinal survey of UK anaesthetists progression in training: initial results

There is a paucity of data relating to progression of trainees, and their wellbeing, during the 7-year UK anaesthesia training programme. We have established a longitudinal survey of the progression and wellbeing of the 2024 cohort of anaesthetists in training.

In July 2024, all UK doctors commencing anaesthesia training in August 2024 (n=548) were invited to complete an online questionnaire, gathering baseline quantitative data on demographics, wellbeing, career intentions and the application process, and qualitative data on concerns about training.

The response rate was 62% (n=338 participants). Mean participant age was 29 (range 24-46) yr, 50.3% were female and 97.6% were UK graduates. Physical (11.9%) and mental (5.8%) health conditions, specific learning difficulty (7.8%) and self-identification as neurodivergent (6.7%) were reported. Enjoying procedural skills and the quality of anaesthetic training were the most frequent motivations for choosing anaesthesia. Proximity to friends, family and partner, and current location, were the most frequently cited factors determining training post selection. Regarding career intentions, 76% intended to undertake part-time training and 38% planned to apply for dual training in intensive care medicine. Nearly two in three participants reported a negative imbalance between effort and reward of their work, and nearly one in three reported high levels of stress.

This study offers insight into the characteristics and experiences of incoming anaesthetists in training. The information gained from longitudinal follow-up will facilitate the development of strategies to reduce stress, facilitate progression, and make optimal use of training capacity.