Clinical Practice 07

Aims: To assess the views of the consultant surgical community regarding the role of research in surgical training post-Calman. Methods: A postal survey of consultant members of ASGBI was performed to assess views on desirability, timing, duration and method of assessment of research in surgical training. The results were compared with a similar survey conducted pre-Calman in 1995. Results: A 50 per cent response rate was achieved compared to 71 per cent in the 1995 survey. Eight-two per cent of respondents had themselves obtained a higher degree by thesis. Overall, 89.7 per cent thought that research in training was either essential or desirable, compared to 89 per cent in the previous survey. Only 1.4 per cent felt that research should be conducted during BST (Basic Surgical Training) compared to 8 per cent previously. Forty-seven per cent indicated that research should be performed between BST and HST (Higher Surgical Training). Thirty-six per cent felt research during HST was most appropriate. Sixty-one per cent felt 1 year and 36 per cent 2 years of research was sufficient (91 and 9 per cent, respectively, in 1995). A total of 27.5 per cent thought that a thesis was the most appropriate method of assessment (33 per cent previously), while 35 per cent were supportive of an MSc (33 per cent previously). Eighty per cent of consultants with a higher degree thought research carried out as a trainee was worthwhile, both for their own education and career. There were no significant differences based on either age or specialist interest of the respondents. Conclusions: Even in the post-Calman era, 90 per cent of surgeons still regard research as either essential or desirable, although 1 year is regarded as adequate by the majority.