Choice of CCT
Trainees may choose to take a single CCT in ICM or anaesthetics, or alternatively can choose to take dual CCTs. Historically there was no singular ICM CCT; doctors could train in ICM as a joint CCT. The impact of this change is unknown; the broader direction of ICM is not yet determined and the choice trainees make between single and dual CCTs cannot be predicted at this point. Demand may also drive decision-making – will ICUs want to employ dual-CCT holders or single-CCT holders? There is no precedent for trainees to see how these choices have worked for their more senior colleagues. ICUs that do not currently have specialist training may increase provision of training, depending on the outcome.
Proposed workforce impact
- It could mean a potential shortage in ICM if the single option is not widely chosen.
- There would be different training pathways of varying lengths, therefore trainees will complete their CCTs at different points – workforce planning is therefore affected by this uncertainty.
Sources or references
Additional research questions
- Scotland does not train single-CCT ICM doctors. Can dual CCT trained doctors run ICUs or does this training decision reflect Scotland’s rural geography and related healthcare configuration?
- What would NHS Employers want to buy? A single- or dual-CCT holder?
- To what extent can single-CCT holders effectively work in the other specialty?
Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.
