Subspecialty training programmes will often involve multiple centres, both as joint programmes but also as supportive accessory units to supplement training in a particular curriculum requirement that may be less common and not available in all units. Equally some programmes will work within networks so trainees can access training opportunities, such as access to complex/supra-regional medical or surgical cases.
Below is the definition of what is deemed an accessory centre. Centres included in the application not meeting these criteria must be included as part of a joint programme. This is independent on how the post is funded.
Definition:
A centre/unit outside the programme’s base hospital/centre(s) whereby a trainee needs to attend an additional accessory centre(s) to attain the training requirements in either:
- Defined key skill in a short placement (defined as 30 days) (e.g. video urodynamics, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) experience or micro-tese, fetal therapeutic procedures) that is not available within programme centre.
- Additional access to mandatory surgical procedures that are being offered within the programme centres, but the case load is low. These centres supplement training in key skills, but the majority of the training for these skills occur in main programme centres, e.g. total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), and continence procedures.
- These centres are accessed regularly during the programme by trainees to supplement training that is being offered within the unit.
- These centres are all local to trainee’s base centre so that trainee can be timetabled to attend this unit for one day sessions (without requiring overnight stays).
Details of all accessory centres must be clearly documented on centre recognition application form. This must include:
- Named consultant educational supervisor at the centre. This does not need to be a subspecialist within the specialty.
- Details of procedure – CiPs/key skills trainee will acquire in this centre.
- Duration/details of placement and when it will occur in the programme.
- Details of workload in this centre for this key skill, such as number procedures performed.