Preparedness of recent graduates to meet anticipated healthcare needs

Why did we commission this research?

We asked the University of Plymouth to see how well new doctors are prepared for the future of healthcare. The study looked at three main areas:

• The changing doctor-patient relationship. Patients are now more involved in making decisions and managing their own health.
• The doctor in a multi-disciplinary team (MDT). Doctors now need to work more closely with specialists and other health and social care professionals.
• Complex clinical decision making. Doctors often have to make tough choices even when they don't have all the facts or the situation is unclear.

What did the research involve?

• A review of the literature to define the skills and traits doctors need in these three areas.
• Telephone interviews with new doctors and their supervisors to get a well-rounded view of how ready they feel.
• Interviews and observations of doctors during emergency simulations. To test how they work in teams and make difficult judgments.

What were the key findings?

Medical school prepares doctors well for many tasks, including:

• Communicating well and putting patients first.
• Working in teams led by other healthcare professionals.
• Knowing when to ask for help with a decision.

However, some areas are more difficult for new graduates, such as:

• Making complex decisions in acute settings.
• Helping patients feel empowered.
• Leading teams and deciding which tasks are most urgent.

The findings show that medical school can only do so much; many skills must be learned on the job. Future training should focus more on "learning by doing". And giving students more chances to work in real teams and "act up" to the role of a foundation doctor.

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Final report - Preparedness of recent medical graduates to meet anticipated healthcare needs

Summary report - Preparedness of recent medical graduates to meet anticipated healthcare needs