[Consequences of reduced working hours for continuing education of physicians]

Since 1960 the working hours for hospital doctors in training have been reduced by 12.5 hours per week. A questionnaire was sent to all departments in Norway involved in the education of specialists, asking them about the consequences of this reduction. The survey showed that the working time actually paid for today is not so short (42-46 hours per week). It showed indirectly, however, that the time available for education must have been reduced. About 50% stated that the reduction in working hours has had a negative effect on the extent and quality of the education. Nearly all confirmed a conflict of priorities between clinical routines and education. There were seldom opportunities to read medical literature or do research during working hours. There has been no reduction in routine work nor any increase in staff, in spite of a considerable increase in duties connected with the education of specialists.