MTP7.14 Evidence-based medicine training in General Surgery in the UK: A survey study

Aims Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is currently not integrated into post-graduate general surgery training. This study aims to identify UK general surgical trainees’ perceptions, attitudes, and barriers regarding EBM training and assessment. This is to inform general surgery educators of actionable insights to aid EBM curricular integration. Methods A cross-sectional, mixed-method survey was developed by adapting the validated McColl and BARRIERS questionnaires, informed by a scoping review. Ethical approval was obtained (University of Sheffield - 056808). The survey was distributed through social media, surgical society newsletters, and deanery mailing lists, adhering to the CHERRIES checklist. Results The survey (5.7% response rate) yielded 55 complete responses (65% male, 35% female). A quarter of respondents did not hold higher academic degrees. Most participants (61%) worked in district general hospitals, with the highest response rates from Yorkshire and West Midlands. Attitudes towards EBM were predominantly positive, with most of the respondents indicating their ability to understand and explain EBM terminology. Barriers included lack of time, excessive evidence volume, limited access to resources, and surgical dogma. Inadequate critical appraisal skills and misalignment of evidence with practice were also highlighted. Existing post-graduate assessment strategies were deemed adequate for EBM by the majority of the trainees. Conclusions General surgical trainees in the UK exhibit positive attitudes towards EBM but face barriers in its application within their training. Addressing those through targeted curricular interventions may facilitate EBM integration into the curriculum.