Postgraduate medical education (PGME) is pivotal in shaping competent, resilient healthcare professionals, yet traditional training methods often fall short in preparing doctors for the dynamic and complex nature of clinical practice. This presentation, titled "Empowering and Engaging Doctors in Training through Workplace-Based Learning," advocates for a transformative approach to PGME, emphasizing the integration of workplace-based learning (WBL) as a cornerstone of effective training. By embedding education within the clinical environment, WBL empowers trainees to develop critical skills such as reflective practice, adaptability, and resilience-essential for navigating the unpredictable challenges of healthcare.
However, the clinical learning environment presents significant hurdles, including competing clinical demands, manpower shortages, and conflicting priorities among stakeholders. Trainers and trainees, both employed by the Hospital Authority (HA), often struggle to balance immediate service delivery with the need for meaningful educational engagement. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort to create an environment where education and clinical work are mutually reinforcing.
This presentation highlights the critical role of HA in fostering a culture that prioritizes and supports PGME. Drawing on Quinn's Advanced Change Theory, we propose actionable strategies for leaders to integrate education and clinical work seamlessly, advocate for systemic support, and cultivate a culture that values learning as a driver of quality and safety. By embracing Safety-II thinking and situated learning theories, HA can empower doctors in training to thrive in a complex healthcare system.
The call to action is clear: through collaboration and a shared commitment to workplace-based learning, HA can lead the way in empowering and engaging doctors in training. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering a culture that prioritizes education alongside service delivery, we can ensure that doctors in training are equipped to deliver high-quality, safe, and patient-centred care.
