The Burden of assessment in the RANZCP Fellowship Program survey was conducted in August-September 2024 as part of the College response to an AMC condition to ‘systematically review the breadth of assessment methods with a view to reducing the burden of assessment on trainees and their supervisors. This includes an evaluation to determine reasons for the high prevalence of breaks in training undertaken in order to complete summative assessments, so that there is improved alignment of assessment requirements and program duration. (Standards 5.1 and 5.2)’

The survey achieved a 17.3% response rate from trainees, including those who had interrupted their training at the time through an approved break in training, or were otherwise not in training. Only 8.2% of accredited supervisors responded, noting that anywhere between 25% - 63% of supervisors with current accreditation are not actively supervising trainees.

Recommendations in the report are based on the responses received, taken in isolation, without factoring in the broader Education environment. Further work and research would be required to translate these recommendations into actions.

The report has been provided to the New Fellowship Program Taskforce as an important data point for their reference.

The findings of the Burden of Assessment survey (likely in a more digestible format than the full 50-page data-heavy report) will be shared with all trainees and supervisors, as the providers of this data.

There are plans for the data to be reworked for journal publication, and an opportunity exists for a trainee, or trainees, to co-author this piece with the Fellows involved.

Trainees interested in co-authorship should contact the training team via traininghelp@ranzcp.org.