Abstract Background/Aims Rheumatology is more than “just joints.” It spans multisystem disease, acute care, and long-term patient management. Yet, many foundation doctors have limited awareness, exposure, and confidence in this field. Objective To assess FY1 and FY2 doctors’ awareness of rheumatology, interest in the specialty, and confidence in abilities to manage patients in hospital settings. Methods An anonymous cross-sectional survey was distributed to FY1 and FY2 doctors across the Wessex region. The questionnaire covered domains including exposure to rheumatology, perceptions of the specialty, key motivational drivers, misconceptions, and interest in exploring rheumatology as a future career. Responses were analysed on a series of numerical scales. Results 52 foundation doctors completed the survey. Interest in rheumatology was evident, driven by work-life balance, variety, and procedural opportunities. However, structured exposure was limited - over two thirds with less than 1 week clinical experience during medical school and foundation training. Awareness of rheumatology’s multisystem scope varied, and confidence in inpatient management was low (80% showing low confidence). Many foundation doctors expressed interest in taster sessions and further teaching. Conclusion Foundation doctors in the Wessex region display interest in rheumatology but feel underprepared to manage rheumatology patients admitted in a hospital setting. Further teaching and exposure are needed, both in medical school and foundation training. Interest exists, confidence lags — early training can close the gap. Disclosure G.R. Andrew: None. L. Sammut: None.
Andrew et al. (Wed,) studied this question.