A gap in higher specialty training of 30 otolaryngology trainees

Introduction: A working understanding of referral to treatment is a prerequisite for the modern training registrar. This article set out to ascertain higher specialty trainees' knowledge of the rules and definitions of referral to treatment in otolaryngology in England. Methods: A ten-question survey on the rules and definitions of referral to treatment was distributed to higher specialty trainees in otolaryngology in London, Kent, Surrey, Sussex training deaneries. Results: A total of 30 surveys were collected. Overall knowledge of referral to treatment among higher specialty trainees was poor. The mean score was 3.83/7 (54.7%) and the median was 4/7 (57.1%). Previous training in referral to treatment, in the form of didactic study days, improved survey scores. The three trainees that had this previous teaching in referral to treatment had a mean score of 4.3 (61.9%). Discussion: This article is believed to be the first insight into the working knowledge of referral to treatment among training registrars in the UK. This article has uncovered a potential gap in higher specialty training. Formal training in referral to treatment as part of nationwide higher specialty training should be considered.