Higher psychiatric trainees and the Caiman reforms

Abstract

Aimsand method The specialistregistrar(SpR)grade was introduced in 1996,taking the place of the senior registrar (SR) grade. We surveyed higher trainees in Scotland in order to draw comparisons between the two grades and assesssatisfaction with the changes. A postal questionnaire was sent to all higher trainees (n=129) in Scotland seeking information on structure of training, work patterns and views. Results Sixty-twoper cent of traineesresponded.There was little difference in the activity and structure of training between SRsand SpRs.Seventy per cent of responders felt that the SpRgrade had not improved training. Clinical implications The survey uncovered dis satisfaction with the new grade, but little objective evidence of differences between SRsand SpRs.More flexibility for time in higher training and restoring the SR title would help to improve morale.

Research activity of specialist registrars

“…It is encouraging that the majority of Scottish trainees in psychiatry (66%) were able to protect the allocated time for research, although this figure is lower than that found previously (78%) in Scotland by Cavanagh & Haut (1999).…”

“…However, more recent surveys suggest that problems with research training remain common. Cavanagh & Haut (1999) examined the transition from senior registrar to specialist registrar grade in Scotland, and found that 22% of SpRs in psychiatry were unable to take two research sessions per week as compared with 12% of senior registrars.…”