Competency based surgical training

With the implementation of the European working time directive and the “new deal” document in the NHS; not only led to a shorter duration of training but also increased the workload intensity on trainee doctors. This leads to a reduced opportunity for personal reflection and feedback from colleagues i.e., consultants, registrars, and fellow senior house officers that leading to a shift from the traditional experiential learning to “competency-based training,” where various workplace-based assessments (WBAs) tools are used. This article is about the use of WBAs in improving trainee doctor’s competence and workplace performance; explore why they are so unpopular amongst both trainees and trainers and what can be done to improve their work based learning.