171 Surgical Trainee Suggestions to Improve Surgical Training and the Surgical Recruitment Process in View of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Stoner, R; Catania, S

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on medical education and surgical training. The experiences of surgical trainees were sought to seek feedback on how both training and recruitment can be adapted to reflect these changes. METHOD: A survey was circulated amongst surgical trainees, to ask what changes to the recruitment process and surgical training they would suggest, in view of the changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Circulated amongst surgical trainees in London. 25 surgical trainees from London responded. Results were analysed and tabulated. RESULTS: Suggestions for the recruitment process include an appreciation by the recruitment panel about reduced academic achievement, relaxation of requirements, clinically oriented interviews and extension of training. Suggestions for surgical training include resumption of educational activities, ensured surgical activities and protected theatre time, mentorship and run through training. CONCLUSIONS: The effects on surgical training due to COVID-19 must be appreciated, and trainees’ experience and feedback should be considered when adapting training and recruitment to this.