Examination of national survey data regarding academic foundation training during the COVID-19 pandemic second wave

Abstract

We aimed to examine the effect of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on Academic Foundation Programme (AFP) trainees. A voluntary, anonymous questionnaire was circulated to all UK AFP doctors. Data were collected from February 2021 to April 2021 then analysed. Of a possible 1,096 trainees, 149 responded to the survey: 48% of respondents were at least partially redeployed, 31% lost academic time and 47% had projects cancelled or postponed. In free-text responses, despite some research opportunities, frustration at lost research time and opportunities were common themes. Trainees also highlighted communication and wellbeing issues. These results demonstrate that the overall effect of COVID-19 on this cohort cannot be underestimated. We propose that a series of measures are implemented to protect and support academic trainees. We hope that these measures would encourage high-quality academic output and help secure the development of the academic clinical workforce.