Longitudinal survey of UK anaesthetists progression in training: initial results

Authors

• Tom Gale, Peninsula Medical School
• Lewis Hendon-John, University Hospitals Sussex
• Sophie Winter, Peninsula Medical School
• Gergo Pinter, Peninsula Medical School Faculty of Health
• Chris Carey, University Hospitals Sussex

ORCID

• Tom Gale: 0000-0003-4551-5860
• Sophie Winter: 0000-0002-7442-5189

Abstract

Background.There is a paucity of data relating to progression of trainees, and their wellbeing, duringthe seven-year UK anaesthesia training programme. We have established alongitudinal online survey-based study of the 2024 cohort of anaesthetists in training.Method.In July 2024, all UK doctors commencing anaesthesia training that August were invited to complete an online questionnaire, gathering baseline quantitative data on demographics, wellbeing, career intentions and the application process, and qualitative data on participant concerns regarding training.Results.The response rate was 62% (338 of 548 invited participants). Mean participant age was 29 yr (range 24-46 yr), 50.3% were female and 97.6% were UK graduates. Physical (11.9% of participants), mental (5.8%) health conditions, specific learning difficulty (7.8%) and self-identification as neurodivergent (6.7%) were reported. Enjoying procedural skills and the quality of anaesthetic training were the most frequent motivators for choosing anaesthesia. Proximity to friends, family and partner, and current location, were the most frequently cited factors determining training post selection. Regarding career intentions, 76% intended to undertake part time training and 38% planned to apply for dual training in intensive care medicine. Nearly two in three participants reported an imbalance between effort and reward of their work and nearly one in three reported high levels of stress.Conclusions.This study offers insight into the demographics and experiences of incoming anaesthetists in training. The information gained from longitudinal follow-up will facilitate the development of strategies to reduce stress, facilitate progression and make optimal use of training capacity.

DOI Link

10.1016/j.bja.2026.03.016

Publication Date

2026-04-16

Publication Title

British Journal of Anaesthesia

ISSN

0007-0912

Acceptance Date

2026-03-16

Deposit Date

2026-04-17

Embargo Period

2027-04-16

Keywords

anaesthetists in training, career intensions, cohort study, recruitment, training progression, wellbeing

Recommended Citation

Gale, T., Hendon-John, L., Winter, S., Pinter, G., & Carey, C. (2026) 'Longitudinal survey of UK anaesthetists progression in training: initial results', British Journal of Anaesthesia, . Available at: 10.1016/j.bja.2026.03.016