RCPE Trainees & Members’ Committee Press Release
29 October 2013
Dr Rosemary Hollick, Chair of the RCPE Trainees & Members’ Committee, said,
“The RCPE Trainees & Members’ Committee contributed fully to the Shape of Training review, through the submission of written evidence and presentation of oral evidence based upon the concerns of our members [1]”.
“While welcoming the increased emphasis on broad based training, to respond to the complex needs of our ageing population, we are disappointed with the lack of detail in the report and, in particular, regarding how the proposed structure will impact upon medical trainees’ career prospects. We believe completely that there has to be an expansion of general medical training, involving greater exposure for all medical trainees to medicine for the elderly. However, this should be undertaken in tandem with expansion in the medical specialties, as many specialties are already operating beyond capacity and could not cope with a reduction in numbers to support an increase in generalists”.
“We also have to be careful that in introducing post-CST credentialing for trainees wishing to sub-specialise, that the report does not lead to the development of a sub-consultant grade. Completion of training, and the ability to practice independently, should equate to consultant status and not vary by specialty. Similarly, trainees wishing to develop specialty interests should not be denied the equity of opportunity to do so as a result of an increase in generalism or inadequate local access to training.”
“The changes recommended within the report cannot be implemented overnight and will create uncertainty for the large number of medical trainees who have already entered training and are working towards completion of training in their chosen specialty. It is essential that the career prospects of these trainees are protected and not damaged by the implementation of fundamental changes to their training post-entry. We will continue to engage with all stakeholders to ensure that any changes arising from the Shape of Training Review are implemented fairly and without detriment to existing trainees”.
ENDS
Contact: Graeme McAlister on 0131-247-3693 or 07733-263453
[1] The RCPE Trainees & Members’ Committee is an elected committee of trainees from all points in training and represents over 3000 medical trainees throughout the UK.
