Training Foundation Year Doctors in the Operating Theatre: A Missed Opportunity?

Abstract

Foundation trainees replaced the pre-registration house officers in August 2005 after Modernising Medical Careers was set up to 'drive up the quality of care for patients through reform and improvement in postgraduate medical education and training'. Doctors qualifying from UK medical schools entered into the foundation years, which consisted of two years of training designed to form a bridge between medical school and specialty training. All doctors wanting to apply for specialty training in the UK must complete their foundation programme or equivalent.