Statement on recruitment from the Association’s Trainee Committee
Friday 23 October 2020
The Association of Anaesthetists Trainee Committee recognises the huge impact the sudden amendments to the recruitment process have had on our trainee members. This is yet another difficult change, coming at an uncertain time. There have already been significant disruptions to exams, training, rotas and recruitment. Each unexpected change adds to the burden on trainees who are already stressed and fatigued due to their frontline work during the pandemic. We know that this recruitment issue may have much wider consequences on your personal lives, as well as your career at such an early stage.
We have passed on our concerns about recruitment to HEE, the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) and the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges. In particular, we raised the introduction of the multi-specialty recruitment assessment (MSRA) into anaesthetic recruitment at short notice, the timing of the recruitment window, problems we have heard about the appeals process, and the poor communication with trainees. We have also liaised with the BMA Junior Doctors Committee. Unfortunately, the current position does not represent what we have asked for.
Looking ahead, we are working with our colleagues at the RCoA with the aim to improve communication with trainees and to push for transparency about the decision-making process. You can read the College’s recent statement on recruitment here.
We will support our trainee members in whatever way we can. Many of you will have been adversely affected by these events; if you need help or support please follow this link to our wellbeing pages.
We will continue to raise your concerns and advocate on your behalf. You can get in touch with us at [email protected] or tweet us at @anaes_trainees.
Dr Roopa McCrossan
Chair,
Association of Anaesthetists Trainee Committee