In search of work/life balance: trainee perspectives on part-time obstetrics and gynaecology specialist training

Abstract

BackgroundPart-time training (PTT) is accessed by approximately 10% of Australian obstetrics and gynaecology trainees, a small but increasing minority which reflects the growing demand for improved work/life balance amongst the Australian medical workforce. This survey reports the attitudes and experiences of both full-time and part-time trainees to PTT.MethodsAn email-based anonymous survey was sent to all Australian obstetrics and gynaecology trainees in April 2009, collecting demographic and training status data, data on personal experiences of PTT and/or trainees, and attitudes towards PTT.Results105 responses were received (20% response rate). These indicated strong support (90%) from both full-time (FT) and part-time (PT) trainees for the availability of PTT. PT trainees were significantly more likely than FT trainees to be female with children. Improved morale was seen as a particular advantage of PTT; decreased continuity of care as a disadvantage.ConclusionsAlthough limited by poor response rate, both PT and FT Australian obstetric trainees were supportive of part-time training. Both groups recognised important advantages and disadvantages of this mode of training. Currently, part-time training is accessed primarily by female trainees with family responsibilities, with many more trainees considering part-time training than the number that access it.

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“…9 It is stated that this trend is also rising worldwide including Europe, North America, Asia, Australia and Africa. [9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19] In Switzerland, 44 specialist degrees can be obtained with part-time courses. 10 Increased interest in parttime training is linked to feminization in medical education.…”

Medical Students’ Attitudes Towards Cardiothoracic Surgery in the United Kingdom: A Cross-Sectional Survey of 1675 Students

“…Implementing change at an institutional and organisational level is challenging but holds potential to have widespread positive impact on female perceptions and experience with CTS. More flexible training pathways, as seen in other specialties such as obstetrics and gynaecology, which also allow for less than full time training 35 , 36 could help overcome this barrier. Moreover, there should be greater support, understanding and acceptance from senior colleagues for trainees who consider taking time out of training.…”

Gender-based workplace assessment in gynecology and obstetrics in Germany: results from the iCEPT Study

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