Multiple applications for vocational training rotations: can we improve the system?

Abstract

Questionnaires were sent to 392 doctors who had applied for 10 vocational training rotations in South West Thames Region nine months previously. These 392 doctors had made 607 such applications in south west Thames during this time. Replies were received from 260 (66%) of those circulated. These doctors together had made roughly 4000 job applications nationwide, or 15 each: two thirds had found a post that was satisfactory for vocational training within the nine months, three quarters of them on organised rotations. There was no difference between men and women regarding success in finding a job. Both married and single women were more specific than men about the area in which they wanted to train and had made fewer job applications. Of those who answered the questionnaires, roughly three quarters thought that the present system of applying for training posts was unsatisfactory, and suggestions for improvements are made. It is concluded that although a regional clearing house scheme would help administration in the regions, only a national scheme would substantially help the applicants. To avoid frustration doctors might be more selective and limit their applications without harming their chances of success.