Evaluation of Caiman training in rheumatology in Northern Region

摘要

In 1993, the Caiman report set out to revise specialist medical training.1 It recommended a curriculum for each specialty, structured training programmes, progression through training based on formal annual assessments of competence, and much shorter training in most specialties. All specialties had to commence specialist training as outlined in the report by April 1997.2 As part of this new structure, a regional training scheme was set up in Northern Region for higher specialist rheumatology trainees. In 2007, junior doctors were subjected to the ongoing saga of the introduction of a new training system: Modernising Medical Careers (MMC). MMC is a UK Department of Health initiative, and consists of a programme of change that aims to drive up the quality of care for patients, through the reform and improvement of postgraduate medical education and training.3 There were many who were concerned about the 'lost tribe' of senior house officers, who did not have structured training. However, MMC was introduced with little data on the outcomes of Caiman training.