PEDIATRIC SURGICAL TRAINING - A SYSTEM THAT WORKS

Background: Paediatric surgical trainees going through the system at t he Royal Children's Hospital (RCH), Melbourne, have been impressed wit h the amount of time dedicated to postgraduate training compared with other institutions. They generally felt well prepared to sit for Fello wship examinations. We decided to look at the programme offered at the RCH and objectively assess the results.Method: A review was undertake n of the training system at the RCH. Opinions were sought from recent and current trainees and compared with trainees in other disciplines. Figures were obtained from the RAGS Examinations Office with respect t o pass rates at Fellowship examinations. Results: The training program me is outlined in some detail. A total of 79% of candidates passed the ir FRACS in paediatric surgery while at the RCH since 1985, compared w ith 52% from all other institutions. Conclusions: A successful trainin g programme requires a commitment to educate one's junior colleagues. Busy consultants can contribute actively by offering to teach and by e ncouraging their trainees to attend rounds and tutorials. The rewards are better-educated and well-rounded surgeons as well as, hopefully, a higher pass-rate at the Part 2 examination.