Plans to improve doctor’s training welcomed

The British Medical Association has welcomed the development of plans to improve how doctors in training are assessed, appraised and receive feedback.

Health Education England recently revealed the recommendations which also include allowing trainees to re-enter training more easily, following a year-long review of the annual review of competence progression process, which began after doctors in training raised concerns about inconsistencies in how their performance was assessed in the current system.

The planned improvements include making the process more uniform across the country, making it easier for trainees to temporarily come out of their training and ensuring every doctor in training gets feedback on their training.

Jeeves Wijesuriya, BMA junior doctors committee chair, said: “Our members have repeatedly raised concerns with the ARCP process noting that it can be inconsistent, with variations across specialties and locations and often appears to be a ‘tick-box exercise’ with little opportunity for education or professional development. It is therefore a positive step that this review states clearly that the consistency of ARCP panels is vital, alongside a need for better decision making and providing meaningful feedback following the panel.”

Wendy Reid, Health Education England executive director of education, said: “Our doctors in training don't need a process that is overly burdensome and adds additional pressure to what is already a very challenging frontline job. The assessment process remains an important part of ensuring patient safety, as it provides evidence of the progress doctors in training are making and assures the public that they are in safe hands. What we have to make sure is that it works for all involved.

“The review has highlighted what we can do to improve things to make doctors in training feel valued, such as not waiting until the end of the year for feedback and support, but having more regular face to face feedback and support that also acknowledges where they are excelling. We know there is variation in how the system works across the country and there are many reasons for that. There needs to be a more standardised and consistent approach so doctors in training go through the same process regardless of where they are based and what hours they work.”