1. National Framework for Induction & Introduction to Histopathology (England/Wales) Strand B: Direction and Standardisation of programme for School Leads Dr Elizabeth Byrne 1, Mrs Sue Cossins 1, Dr Anna Green 2 The Leeds Teaching Hospitals 1, Royal Free Hospital, London 2 INTRODUCTION Histopathology school leads and trainers are required to provide induction for all new ST1 trainees. Many ST1s starting their training have limited previous exposure those who are experienced are likely to have moved to a new department. The purpose of this study is to compare current practice against the mandatory requirements set out by PMETB’s Generic Standards 1 ( GMC became responsible for the functions of PMETB on 1 April 2010) and the Gold Guide 2, to ascertain what criteria are not being met and make recommendations for improvement in an attempt to standardise induction practice across the UK – producing a National Framework for Induction document. A trainee survey carried out by the GMC in 2009 3 comparing all specialties showed that Histopathology trainees in the UK rated their induction at 85.06%. A parallel survey (Strand A) was carried out to correlate these findings with the ST1 trainees’ perspective of induction delivered. METHODS AND TECHNOLOGY A questionnaire was created within Survey Monkey TM and sent to Training School lead trainers in England and Wales. This asked about the information they provide, what elements make up the histology introductory period and how it is delivered. The outcome will enable a direct correlation with PMETB’s 1 mandatory requirements, give direction to School Leads and set minimum standards for a national framework. RESULTS The response rate was 57.9% (11/19) 100% of respondents felt they had a robust system in place. LIMITATIONS The national framework only covers the generic standards and not school specific information. REFERENCES 1 Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board Generic Standards for training. July 2008 and September 2009. 2 Modernising Medical Careers. A Reference Guide for Postgraduate Specialist Training in the UK. The Gold Guide Third Edition June 2009. 3 GMC Trainee Survey: core and specialty training UK-wide (2009) QUESTIONNAIRE This was divided into the following sections: The induction; Was there a robust programme in place? When was it delivered and how long did it last? Did they give generic information eg, maps, where to find policies/SOPs etc? Information relating to training & education Information relating to the RCPath Histology Introductory period When, how and length of introductory period RECOMMENDATIONS The ‘national framework’ will be implemented and act as a checklist for schools. A re-audit will take place in Autumn 2010 after implementation of the framework. DISCUSSION Although all schools felt that they had a robust programme in place, this audit highlights that some PMETB/MMC requirements are not being covered and that induction practises/trainees experiences after the initial induction vary between schools. We recommended a national framework for induction be created, incorporating PMETB/MMC standards, to guide school leads so as to standardize the induction period and ensure all trainees receive a good quality induction. It is hoped this will also cut down time trainers need to spend preparing induction. HISTOLOGY INTRODUCTION Following the initial information giving part of the induction: -54.5% put trainees straight into diagnostic teams -100% of trainees had intro to normal histology -54.5% have a dedicated ST1 teaching programme -45.5% have a programme with a mixture of dedicated ST1 teaching, and sessions with more senior trainees -81.8% have formal autopsy training -63.6% felt time pressures of their ordinary work load had an impact on the quality of induction given -81.8% felt that if the induction period it would negatively impact on the ability to deliver curriculum When asked to comment responses included ‘3 day induction … then launching into clinical teams has worked well for the past 5 years’ ‘…In reality at small centres it isn't sharply demarcated.’ ‘The whole Year is an introduction to Histopathology’ PMETB's Mandatory Requirements for Induction and The Percentage of Schools That Cover these at Induction Given physical orientation eg, maps and/or guided tour 100.0% Information of basic terms and conditions of service, ie hours of work, instructions on reporting in sick, annual leave entitlement etc 100.0% Told where to find key policies and protocols 100.0% Informed how they fitted into the team within dept 90.9% Given instructions on how to apply for annual/study leave 90.9% Introduced to key members of the department 100.0% Provided with health and safety information eg, fire safety, lab safety 100.0% Given training/instructions on IT and communications arrangements 100.0% Informed of clinical governance, complaints handling and risk management related to their roles 45.5% Given information on the organizations history, services, culture and values, including an appreciation of equality and diversity issues 54.5% Histopathology specific points to cover at induction and the percentage of schools covering these Include a clear outline of the job and its requirements100% Information on how structured training will be provided in line with national standards 90.9% Requirement to register with RCPath100% Requirement to complete an on-line portfolio81.8% Stages of training to CCT72.7% The need to be aware of minimum datasets81.8% The timing (and approximate costs) of RCPath events such as WBAs, MSF, HY1A, ARCPs etc 100% 18.2% felt that it was not necessary to provide the information listed above. Reasons given for this: ‘Awareness of minimum dataset information will be addressed when they start reporting. There is a lot of info to cover at induction and some things can be left to a later date.’ ‘Organisational history may be interesting but is not essential’’ ‘Provide guidance for year 1, after that to year 2-5 Programme director for guidance’