SP2.1.11Real-world use of workplace-based assessments in surgical training: a UK nationwide exploration of trainee perspectives and consensus recommendations from the Association of Surgeons in Training

Abstract

Abstract Background The utility of Workplace-Based Assessments (WBAs) in surgical training depends on the way they are completed. This study aims to ascertain the real-world usage of WBAs, as perceived by UK surgical trainees. Methods An anonymous national online questionnaire was conducted via the Association of Surgeons in Training (ASiT). The evaluation employed mixed methods to interpret quantitative and qualitative data. Suggestions for improvement were identified from free-text comments and considered through a formal two-round modified Delphi consensus process by ASiT council members. Results Analysis included 906 complete responses from all surgical specialities across all training levels. WBA use was perceived to deviate markedly from the Joint Committee on Surgical Training standards with significantly identified misuse across all surgical specialities. Inaccurate completion was acknowledged by 89.6% of respondents, and some trainers appear complicit with 40.9% of respondents aware of 'unobserved sign-off', and 33.6% aware of 'password disclosure' by trainers. Most trainees felt the Annual Review of Competency Progression (ARCP) respected WBA quantity above quality (55.4%), and a third felt pressure to overstate the number completed (32.0%). Main reasons for misuse were time restraints, lack of engagement and the will to achieve career progression targets. Conclusions UK surgical trainees perceive a significant deviation from WBAs standards due to multiple factors. The frequency and nature of misuse are worrying and undermines the existing evidence for the WBAs role in training. We present consensus recommendations from ASiT for the improvement of WBA use in UK surgical training.