Evaluation of the initial phase of a clinical endoscopist colonoscopy training programme pilot in wales

Introduction: Demand on endoscopy services requires an increased clinical endoscopist workforce in Wales To ensure safe and effective practice a comprehensive longitudinal training programme has been developed This comprises two academic training weeks;a University based Level 7 Academic module;simulator training;Joint Advisory Group in GI Endoscopy (JAG) Hands-on basic training course;training lists with a clinical supervisor (2 per week);online SLATE lesion recognition training courses;endoscopic non-technical skills (ENTS) training and JAG Polypectomy course We report on the evaluation of the early phase of a National Clinical Endoscopist Training programme pilot Aims & Methods: 1) To assess feasibility of implementation of a National Training Programme 2) To evaluate initial outcomes from the programme Structured feedback on each element of training programme delivery was received from delegates and faculty Trainee completion of academic components of the course is assessed by University tutors The clinical progress of trainees can be tracked using the JETS e-portfolio used by all UK endoscopy trainees Case progression rates of the CE trainees were compared against 'controls' on Gastroenterology Speciality Trainees (Wales Deanery) at the same stage of endoscopy training Results: All clinical endoscopists with the programme rated as excellent or very good the knowledge-based content delivery in the Academic Training weeks Sessions on professional development were particularly valued and having a nurse endoscopist as part of the training faculty was identified as important Academic progress of all trainees through the level 7 modular components has been satisfactory Simulation training was affected by the breakdown of a computer simulator, but this was substituted with alternative models Trainees rated simulation as useful in refining scope handling technique Evaluation of online SLATE courses was positive and additional face-to-face training on lesion recognition was also highly valued Clinical progression of hands on cases has been satisfactory, with average quarterly case progression comparing favourably to speciality trainee controls (38 vs 30 cases/qtr) and all trainees remain were course to achieve certification for independent practice in colonoscopy within 2 years The COVID-19 epidemic has delayed ENTS and polypectomy training and analysis will account for temporary suspension of the programme Conclusion: It is feasible to deliver this type of longitudinal training programme for clinical endoscopists Further investment in endoscopic simulators has resulted from assessment of this aspect of training, all other elements were rated highly in training and faculty feedback Health Education and Improvement Wales have commissioned a further cohort of clinical endoscopists to commence a National Clinical Endoscopist Programme in upper and lower GI endoscopy based on this model