Anesthesiology education and training in Germany. Results from a representative questionnaire

Abstract

The aim of the present investigation, initiated by the German Academy of Education in Anaesthesiology (DAAF), was to obtain valid information about education and training strategies of German anaesthetists, in order to highlight weaknesses and strengths for better planning and performance of future efforts in this area. For this reason, a questionnaire with 23 items was distributed to 2000 German anaesthetists during the years 1993-1995 and of these 1290 questionnaires could then be evaluated (response rate 64.5%). The most important means of education and training were classical media such as text books and journals. Modern techniques such as videos, tapes or computer-assisted anaesthesia simulators were poorly used. Refresher courses, repetitoria and hospitations in other departments were, despite infrequent use, considered to be effective means of education and training and should be made more available. Systematic theoretical education was provided particularly seldom in most hospitals. Respondents considered anaesthetic complications and mishaps, intensive care and pain medicine to be the main top topics for continuing medical education. German anaesthetists seem highly motivated for education and training and spend on average about 5.5 h per week for personal learning and refreshing, a figure that is quite comparable to international standards. Hospital and department heads are mostly believed to have positive attitudes to education and training. Most respondents were in favour of strict rules for education and training measures, which includes the obligation to prove their certified attendance (as yet not required in Germany). On the other hand, the majority voted against making the continued recognition as a specialist in anaesthesiology dependent on completion of a performance control.