How has Covid-19 impacted the training of Urology Trainees in South Wales

Objectives
To determine whether Covid19 had a tangible effect on urology training in South Wales. There has been no data available concerning how training has changed during the covid pandemic in the region. This survey evaluated whether training had been impacted, focusing particularly on clinical activities, academic opportunities and self-wellbeing. The primary aims were to identify impact on clinical activities; determine any impact on academic activities; and assess whether there was any impact on the participant’s well-being during Covid.

Materials and Methods
Online questionnaires were sent to all available Urology Trainees; n= 20 (24 total trainees, 83% response) working in the Wales deanery in the United Kingdom, asking about changes in training within operating, clinic, diagnostics, courses, teaching and examinations.

Results
Overall, a reduction in operating theatre exposure, clinics and teaching courses was noted, but with an only a small impact on cancer diagnostics and Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings. A significant number of trainees felt their index procedures and ability to complete training on time will be affected. Reassuringly, senior support was felt to be maintained. Findings were discussed at the British Association for Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) international congress, with the aim of discussing impacts on urology training elsewhere.

Conclusion
Cancer work, including theatre, diagnostics and MDT were maintained, however there is a notable drop in trainee confidence due to the pandemic. Trainees felt they won’t reach their operative numbers, struggle to successfully complete training, and are at risk of burnout. Following BAPIO discussion, we would suggest that training programmes readjust to focus on areas where exposure has been lacking. Ideally there should be robust pathways in place to prevent this reoccurring.