1. If I have started an ATSM prior to starting SST, can I complete it?
YES – in general, deaneries and the RCOG will support the completion of specific ATSMs that have been started prior to entering a SST programme. You should discuss this with your SST programme supervisor and the deanery ATSM director.
2. If I am undertaking a SST programme, do I need to undertake ATSMs to obtain CCT?
NO - trainees entering SST are undertaking specific training with the aim of offering subspecialty services at consultant level. The majority of subspecialty consultants will practice almost exclusively in their subspecialty area, often within a tertiary level referral service. The SST programmes are all approved by GMC and completion of a SST programme allows the trainee to apply for CCT without completing two ATSMs (which is a mandatory requirement for trainees completing a standard 7 year programme in O&G)
3. Is it possible to register for and undertake an ATSM during SST?
It is not usual to start ATSMs during subspecialty training. You will be concentrating on completing your specific SST programme. With increasing pressures on time (eg the EWTD 48 hour directive), it is becoming clear that two years of clinical work within a SST programme is likely to be the minimum time required to obtain the necessary SST competences. There may be exceptions when your SST programme supervisor will support registration and completion of a specific ATSM during your SST programme. This should be in circumstances where the ATSM will complement and enhance your SST programme competences .
As an example, some trainees undertaking SST in feto-maternal medicine may wish to complete the Labour Ward Lead ATSM if they plan to undertake a leadership role on the Delivery Suite. In gynaecological oncology SST, trainees who plan a leadership role in vulval disease, may consider the ATSM in vulval disease (which specifically covers specialist multidisciplinary management of “benign” vulval disease). If you are planning to undertake an ATSM during SST, the following process should be followed:
- discuss the benefits of undertaking the ATSM with your SST programme supervisor and ensure their full support before moving to step 2.
- meet with the deanery ATSM director to ensure that it is possible to undertake the ATSM locally . Confirm when it would be possible to undertake the ATSM and who your preceptor will be. (The ATSM director has overall responsibility for ensuring equitable allocation of ATSMs for all senior trainees and in particular for those in ST6/7 for whom it is mandatory to complete two ATSMs)
- finally, you must also ensure support from your Head of School or Deanery STC Chair
4. What do I do when I have secured support from my SST programme supervisor, the deanery ATSM director and the Head of School/Deanery STC Chair?
You should download and complete a registration form for the ATSM .This will be signed by the preceptor and the ATSM Director, and should be submitted to the College, along with a letter of support from your SST programme supervisor and the Head of School/Deanery STC Chair. The appropriate registration fee should accompany your application. All submissions for ATSM training within SST will be reviewed by the Chair of the subspecialty training committee.