- Arrangement for junior doctors to train in private sector formalised for first time
- Royal College of Surgeons says trainees “deserve to get back to the specialism they chose”
- May “help NHS to work through backlog of electives”
The NHS has struck a new deal with private providers enabling junior doctors to train in independent hospitals.
In the past it has not been routine for training to take place in the private sector, despite independent providers generally relying on medics who have trained in the NHS, and often continue to work in the NHS.
The move appears to be aimed at protecting medical training, especially in elective specialty services, from covid-19 restrictions and disruption in NHS hospitals; and as a larger share of operations are shifting into the private sector.
A joint position statement was agreed by NHS England, Health Education England, the Independent Health Providers Network and the Confederation of Postgraduate Schools of Surgery yesterday.
It lists several requirements which need to be in place. These include the need for trainees to be supervised by a consultant who is a recognised clinical or educational supervisor in the NHS, training to be open to trainees regardless of level, and NHS indemnity.
A joint letter from NHSE/I and HEE says some further arrangements are still to be finalised by the parties to the agreement, but adds: “There are already adequate indemnities, existing successful arrangements and advice available from the regulatory bodies to ensure that trainees can be accommodated in independent sector facilities.”
Ideal for training
Royal College of Surgeons of England vice president Cliff Shearman said it had been calling for such an arrangement, and added: ”It’s only right that NHS-funded treatment should help train the NHS workforce of the future.
“We need to make use of operating theatres and clinical facilities in the independent sector, to supplement the space we have in the NHS, if we are to get through this mammoth backlog. Many operations undertaken in the private sector are less complex, and therefore ideal for training, so it’s essential that trainees are not excluded.
“Trainees have worked flexibly and shown their commitment to supporting the NHS through this difficult time. They deserve the chance now to get back to the specialism they chose.”
Sheona MacLeod, acting director of education and quality at HEE, said the agreement provided a “timely opportunity for trainees to further their skills and gain the competencies required to become NHS consultants”.
“We will ensure that expected training standards are met to make sure trainees are supported to deliver the best possible patient care,” she said.
Independent Healthcare Providers Network chief executive David Hare said: “Independent healthcare providers can provide an excellent training ground for junior doctors and the sector is committed to playing its part in training the next generation of medical professionals.
“Indeed, IHPN, along with a range of healthcare bodies, has for a number of years been calling for reform to ensure that the sector can safely and effectively fulfil its duty in this area.”
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HEE/NHSE
Source Date
September 2020
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