Authors:

Abstract

Introduction: In an environment with constant rapid advancement, surgeons need to update their knowledge and skills. Apart frominitial undergraduate and post graduate training, the importance of CME over the subsequent years is self explanatory

Method: A validated, self administered questionnaire was given to consultant surgeons and postgraduate trainees (PGTs) in General Surgery at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. This questionnaire assessed four main aspects regarding CME; demographic data, current involvement, order of preference and factors affecting participation.

Results: Of the 35 respondents, 24 were PGTs. There was no statistically significant difference between PGTs and consultants in relation to their current commitment towards CME (p=0.51) or the time they would like to spend (p=0.236). PGTs spent more time on group CME activity whereas consultants spent more time on individual CME activities. For the majority, the availability of free time was the main factor affecting participation. Cost and distance were limiting factors for 58.3% and 29% of the PGTs respectively.

Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the current commitment or the time they wish to spend on CME. As a significant number of trainees indicated financial and location constraints, the College should look into addressing these problems.

Key words: Surgical education; Training; Continuous medical education.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljs.v28i2.3201

The Sri Lanka Journal of Surgery 2010; 28(2):15-18

Keywords: Surgical education, Training, Continuous medical education