Evaluation of flexible senior registrar training in obstetrics and gynaecology.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate part-time senior registrar training in obstetrics and gynaecology from the perspective of the trainees.

DESIGN

Postal questionnaire.

SUBJECTS

Past and present senior registrar trainees on the PM(79)3 scheme.

RESULTS

Thirty-two questionnaires were returned (86% response rate) from 20 current trainees (100% response) and 12 (71% response) past trainees. Family commitments were the main reason for training part-time. Of these, 84% were satisfied with their training and most (81%) thought the quality as good or better than full time training. Personalised timetables were seen to be of particular benefit. Negative attitudes towards part-time training and discrimination in favour of full time trainees were seen as some of the biggest difficulties associated with part-time training. Other problems included administrative delays in organising part-time posts, time restriction, and the length of training.

CONCLUSIONS

Part-time senior registrar training is effective in retaining trainees with domestic commitments within the speciality. It is regarded as being of high quality but with attendant problems, particularly those related to the negative attitudes of others. Recommendations for improvements have been made.