Post-CSCST fellowships: beyond subspecialization.

Abstract

The transition from higher training to consultanthood is a crucial point in the medical training pathway. Despite comprehensive higher training programs, studies of new consultants have reported a disparity in their sense of preparation for non-clinical and clinical duties. Post- "Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Specialist Training" (CSCST) fellowships have traditionally been undertaken as a means to access subspecialty clinical training which is otherwise unavailable in higher training programs. However, fellowships have a role beyond this subspecialization model, particularly in meeting the non-clinical training needs of new CSCST graduates.The design and goals of fellowship posts should be considered in this context, to align them with the reported needs of new consultants. Special consideration should be given to defining roles of independence for the fellow and to the nature of the mentorship relationship, distinguishing these posts from higher specialist training. Well-designed post-CSCST fellowships have an important role in facilitating the successful transition to consultanthood.