498. Impact of COVID-19 on UK Foundation Doctors: Education and Safety

Abstract

Background: Transmission of a novel coronavirus (SARS-COV2) from China has caused a global pandemic, resulting in an unprecedented burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Frontline healthcare workers face considerable risk due to the potential for repeated exposure to infected individuals, many of whom may be asymptomatic given the lengthy incubation period of 5-10 days. With rising incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates, appropriate training and support is paramount in safeguarding the wellbeing of NHS staff and patients. Foundation doctors are among frontline staff being redeployed to areas of need. They are a vital resource within the NHS; and are uniquely positioned to support and staff medical teams. Method(s): A 24 question digital survey with a mix of open-ended, multiple- choice, and rating-scale questions was distributed to the 18 UK Foundation Schools. Questions established trainee demographics and the quantity of COVID-19 training received; with focused questions relating to personal safety and support for vulnerable individuals. Result(s): 714 doctors completed the survey; 55% in FY2, 43% in FY1, and 2% above FY2 level. 74% of respondents reported receiving no formal training on COVID-19. Mean confidence was 84% in diagnosing COVID-19, and 56% in managing it. 75% did not receive formal training on the requisite safety precautions for suspected COVID-19 cases. 67% had not been fit tested and 75% of those who failed their fit test were not provided with alternative equipment. 30 doctors reported being pregnant and none had received additional support regarding protective measures. 47 doctors reported being immunocompromised and 42 of them had received no additional support in view of their increased risk. 93% of doctors had not received definitive guidance regarding the impact of this on their ARCP sign-off and progression of training. Conclusion(s): Alarming proportions of Foundation trainees are not currently being provided with formal training or support for their personal safety during the COVID-19 outbreak. This is remediable through the urgent implementation of formal COVID-19 training, standardised across NHS trusts to ensure a consistent standard of care for the protection of trainees and patients.