Working and Training Conditions of Residents in Pediatric Surgery: A Nationwide Survey in Germany

Abstract

Purpose: As in other surgical specialties, increasing concern has been expressed worldwide about the shortage of trainees in pediatric surgery training programs. We performed a nationwide survey to investigate the current situation in Germany.

Methods: An internet-based nationwide survey comprising 36 questions on training conditions in pediatric surgery was linked to the homepage of the German Society of Pediatric Surgery from June to September 2008. Statements on the following aspects were evaluated by responding residents using a scale from 1 (I do not agree at all) to 5 (I fully agree): workplace, cooperation with colleagues, head of the department, cooperation with other specialties, training and research conditions. A median value of 3 indicated an unsatisfactory assessment, with at least 50% of respondents giving an indifferent or negative response.

Results: 70 questionnaires were completed. Some of the evaluations revealed problematic areas. In particular, statements regarding working hours revealed dissatisfaction among the responding doctors. The median value accorded the statement “I am satisfied with the current working time regulation” was 2.9. With regard to departmental heads, some criticisms were directed against a perceived lack of soft skills. According to the respondents, their involvement in decision-making processes was insufficient (“We are involved in decision-making processes affecting our working conditions” – median value 2.4). Residents were also dissatisfied with the feedback they received for their work (“I get enough feedback regarding my achievement” – median value 2.6). Another problem area was career development (“I will finish my specialist training in time” – median value 2.9). However, these points did not affect overall satisfaction.

Conclusions: Trainee satisfaction with regulations on working hours is low. Despite a general satisfaction with all fields appraised, improvements in various individual areas, e. g., the attitude of departmental heads and strategies of career development, are necessary.

Key words

pediatric surgery - residents - working conditions

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