Calling for a high-quality safe training experience for prevocational doctors
The AMA has recently revised its Position Statement on Prevocational medical education and training – 2020 which recommends the establishment of an accredited training pathway for all prevocational doctors that provides a valid, safe, and rewarding training experience, and a career pathway that values the different career preferences of doctors and recognises that these may change. It outlines several key high-level principles that should underpin this pathway including:
- Recognition of prior learning for entry into vocational training.
- Safe and collaborative rostering.
- A clear list of expected responsibilities.
- Options for flexible work and training arrangements.
- Safe supervision standards and training requirements met through accreditation by the relevant accrediting body.
In line with this, the AMA Vision for Australia's Health has called for the accreditation of all prevocational training places for junior doctors by the end of of 2023 (Pillar 2: Public Hospitals, Point 2.9 page 23)
Trainees in unaccredited positions often lack access to structured education and training opportunities, clinical oversight, professional development and support. Concerns have been expressed about the health and wellbeing of this cohort, who may be more vulnerable to exploitation, work-related stress, and workplace bullying and harassment.
“Providing a high-quality safe training experience for prevocational doctors is fundamental to patient safety and the delivery of high-quality patient care.
The class action launched by junior doctors in Victoria claiming unrostered overtime in Victorian hospitals is tangible proof that we must do more to improve the training and work environment for the next generation of doctors.” said Dr Hash Abdeen, Chair of the AMA Council of Doctors in Training.
Read the Position Statement here.
