RCoA response to the GMC’s training survey: one third of Anaesthetists in Training report burnout

The RCoA welcomes the publication of the results of the GMC’s National Training survey, which shows that 90% of anaesthetists in training rated their training as good or very good, and nearly 80% felt they had achieved the expected level of practical experience in the previous year. This reflects their hard work, and the effort and commitment of the many College Tutors, clinical and educational supervisors and training leads who have worked extremely hard to create and maintain supportive training environments in very difficult circumstances.  

However, we are very concerned to see that 2 years after the start of the pandemic, approximately one third of anaesthetists in training and a quarter of trainers are still reporting high or very high levels of burnout, a situation that has not improved since 2021.  

The pressures resulting from the pandemic, when many anaesthetists in training were redeployed to intensive care units meaning they missed out on training in anaesthesia, and from the current drive to clear the backlog of elective surgery are contributing to this worrying trend. It is imperative that the Government and the NHS provide the necessary resources to boost the number of healthcare professionals, including anaesthetists, to meet patient demand and to prevent our members from working under circumstances that cause detriment to their own health and wellbeing. 

The College recognises the effect that the demands of training and exams have on anaesthetists in training and on the people who support them. We will continue to study the results of this survey and use the findings to help guide improvements. The 2021 Curriculum already allows more time in the first three years of anaesthetic training to prepare for and undertake the Primary FRCA, which we hope will reduce the pressure on those at the beginning of their anaesthetic careers.  

In addition, we are taking steps to ensure wellbeing has renewed a focus, with important developments including two new appointments: Dr Ramai Santhirapala as Council lead for wellbeing and Dr Jonathan Chambers as Bernard Johnson Advisor with a specific remit for training.  We are also increasing the representation of anaesthetists in training on College Council, all of which will help us to better support our members in training and their trainers. 

Dr Fiona Donald 

President