Training opportunities within the independent sector

In response to the HSJ article published today (Royal College boss accuses major private provider of being ‘extremely uncooperative’ over training) the Royal College of Anaesthetists is aware that the independent sector is helping the NHS meet the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, by taking on elective clinical work. In order to help support this transfer of elective work, a large number of Anaesthetists in Training have been redeployed to private hospitals.

The agreement in September 2020 between the independent sector and the NHS to formalise a training structure within private hospitals was a welcome move to protect training opportunities for our next generation of medical professionals.

While the College understands provision for Anaesthetists in Training has been made within the independent sector, we are asking for our members to have greater access to training within those settings.

We recognise that while new processes and procedures have needed to be implemented, these are new for hospitals and trainees alike. We therefore look forward to continuing our work with the Independent Healthcare Provider's Network, to further explore challenges and provide solutions to how any barriers to training may be removed.

Getting medical education and training back on track during the pandemic remains critically important for the NHS and patients alike.