Surgical training in Spain: Results of a national survey

Introduction The aim of the study is to try and find out the state of surgical training in Spain and to determine whether it meets the objectives of the Program. Material and methods The results of two surveys carried out on Residents and General Surgery Tutors by the Spanish Surgeons Association, based on the conclusions of the XXVII Congreso Nacional de Cirugia. The questions formulated referred to general aspects of the Service and specific ones related to access, teaching activity, surgery, research and personal perspectives. The responses were defined, adjusted and categorised as quantitative and qualitative variables. The statistics program G Stat 2.0 was used for processing and the descriptive presentation of the results. Results The surveys were sent to 626 Residents and 142 Tutors, with a response rate of 19% and 29%, respectively. First year residents predominated (32%) compared to later years, with an R-5 response index of 7.2%. A total of 91% knew the speciality Program well, and 76% were satisfied with the training received. Conclusions The results obtained as regards surgical activity agree with those established in the Program, both in the number of procedures and in their progression throughout the Residency, although it is not possible to ensure its uniformity. The functions and accreditation of the Tutors which are one of the main foundations of the training process are pending specific regulations.