QI Project Model for Resident Doctors - Engaging Resident Doctors to Learn and Participate in QI

Abstract

Aim: Quality improvement (QI) is a vital part of resident doctors' development, required for ARCP sign-off during foundation years and recognised in specialty training, especially surgery, where points are awarded for QI involvement. However, the current medical school and foundation year models often lack dedicated time for QI, leaving resident doctors underprepared to engage effectively. Method(s): At Whipps Cross Hospital, the QI and Medical Education teams collaborated to design and pilot a structured QI program for FY1 and FY2 doctors. The program included a "First Steps in QI" teaching session, embedded into the weekly training schedule. This session covered both theoretical and practical aspects of QI to ensure a comprehensive understanding. Result(s): The impact of the program was assessed using pre- and post-session questionnaires. Knowledge levels improved from 49% to 60%, and participants' self-perceived understanding, assessed on a Likert scale (1-3), increased from a mean of 1.55 to 2.51 after the session. The second component of the program focused on practical application, matching participants with ongoing QI projects in the hospital, including surgical initiatives. Remarkably, 95% of participants engaged in these projects. Conclusion(s): This initiative demonstrates that structured QI training at the start of resident doctors' rotations fosters engagement and builds the skills needed for impactful projects. These projects not only enhance hospital and trust outcomes but also help doctors meet ARCP requirements and strengthen future specialty training applications, particularly in surgery.