Evaluation of training programmes mapped to the new internal medicine curriculum

ABSTRACT
In preparation for the internal medicine training (IMT) programme introduced in 2019, the core medical training (CMT) programme in London was made ‘IMT-ready’ in 2018 by creating new rotations that reflected the compulsory requirements of the first 2 years of the IMT curriculum, including provision of the requisite number of critical care placements. Core medical trainees completed posts within the ‘IMT-ready’ programme between August 2018 and August 2019, during which time the trainee experience was evaluated. A total of 497 responses were received. Of these, 96% of trainees were on an ‘acute unselected take’ on-call rota, 79% were able to attend outpatient clinics, 80% had the opportunity to practise procedural skills and 88% had the opportunity to apply palliative care skills. Clear areas for improvement were identified that predominantly focused on the need to optimise trainee attendance of outpatient clinics and the number of patients seen during an acute take. With respect to future career intentions, only 63% of trainees planned on applying to a group 1 (with general medicine) higher medical specialty. Thematic analysis of trainees in critical care placements highlighted an appreciation of the level of senior support, feeling well integrated into the team, a positive experience of induction and excellent opportunities for performing procedures.