Irish Higher Medical Training in Gastroenterology; Where are we Now?

Aims: A formal higher medical training scheme in gastroenterology has been in existence for several years but progress in the provision of structured training has not been assessed. We aimed to assess trainee satisfaction and identify problem areas for current SpRs in gastroenterology.

Methods: An electronic questionnaire was distributed to all those registered in higher medical training in gastroenterology in the Republic of Ireland as part of a pilot study to assess the views of all higher medical trainees in Ireland.

Results: The response rate was 50% and 14 responses were analysed. 6 respondents reported experiencing difficulties within higher medical training; most of these involved the requirements of the GIM (general internal medicine) component of training. Most reported that formal gastroenterology training days were beneficial, although half of respondents reported difficulties getting time off to attend. Less than half found formal GIM study days were beneficial. Almost all were positive about the current gastroenterology training curriculum, but few found the current logbook user friendly.

Conclusion: Overall there is a significant degree of satisfaction with the current higher medical training scheme in gastroenterology. GIM training, balancing service demands with training and the current logbook should be priority areas for improvement.