Training and Continual Professional Development for Urology Doctors
At Salisbury, the Urology Department has a regular rotation of medical students from Southampton University and University College Hospital, London. They usually come during their final year and work closely with the team experiencing all aspects of caring for patients undergoing urology surgery.
In-house training for doctors
Once they are qualified, junior doctors spend 2 years undergoing foundation training (Foundation Year 1 and Foundation Year 2). As part of their surgical training, they can apply to join the urology team for 6 months urology experience attached to a consultant urologist who provides continual support and supervision.
In addition to clinical experience the foundation doctors perform audits as part of their training and present their findings to the team and the rest of the hospital, which usually leads to a change in policy or practice.
As part of their weekly timetable all the junior doctors and students receive formal teaching sessions from one of our senior consultant urologists.
Following the foundation years, doctors interested in following a surgical career become surgical trainees for a further two years (ST1 and ST2). During this time their clinical responsibilities increase with experience.
Doctors wishing to further their career in urology can apply to join the surgical rotation as specialist registrars. At this stage of their career they are performing some operations on their own and more complex ones under the supervision of the urology consultants.
Continuing Professional Development:
Is an essential part of the working week in urology. Regular weekly meetings are held where all the team take part in presenting the latest research. Equally important is the time made available for members of the team to attend national and in some cases international conferences.
Outpatient Clinics:
If you need to visit the urology clinic you may be seen by a surgical trainee (a doctor who has completed their foundation training) or clinical nurse specialist. They work in clinic alongside consultant urologists who can provide support and advice when needed.