Basic Surgical Training:

Have you had at least two years of clinically based training in surgery covering these objectives since your intern year?

Basic training in New Zealand will also include courses in surgical skills, critical care and early management of severe trauma. Up to 20 learning modules must also be completed satisfactorily.

The basic surgical training programme provides a general learning experience which includes basic surgical skills, clinical assessment and the use of diagnostic modalities, an understanding of basic surgical science and the principles of surgery.

The programme is a clinically based training programme. The objectives of the training programme are:

• the development of a sense of responsibility of patients, staff, and community,
• the understanding of basic sciences relevant to the practice of surgery,
• the clinical application of these areas to surgery,
• the acquisition of appropriate basic technical skills,
• the development of appropriate interpersonal and communication skills,
• an understanding of medico-legal and ethical issues relating to surgery.
  

During your basic surgical training did you have experience in several surgical branches, with at least 12 months in specific surgical posts?

During basic surgical training registrars must rotate through a series of posts of three to six months duration, to include as many surgical branches and related disciplines as possible.

At least 12 months out of the 24 months minimum must be in surgical posts. Of the remaining time, 12 weeks must be in an emergency department and eight weeks in an intensive care unit. The rest may be spent in surgical, medical, or basic science posts, or in approved research.

Did you pass a basic surgical sciences examination towards the end of your basic surgical training covering anatomy, physiology and pathology and pass a clinical assessment examination?

The FRACS Part I examination (which is a pre-requisite to advanced training) and assessment package includes:

• a multiple choice examination of three 2 ½ papers in anatomy, physiology and pathology,
• an interview by designated Fellows of the College to ascertain the progress a candidate has made during basic training,
• satisfactory mentor assessment reports totalling a minimum of 52 weeks,
• objective structured clinical assessment (OSCA) on the application of basic science knowledge and understanding and of clinical practice relevant to all forms of surgery at the appropriate level of knowledge.

Advanced Surgical Training:

How long was your advanced training?

In New Zealand advanced training in each branch is:

Cardiothoracic surgery - six years
General Surgery - four years
Neurosurgery - four years
Otolaryngology - four years
Orthopaedic Surgery - four years
Paediatric Surgery - five years
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - four years (after an additional year of surgery in general)
Urology - four years (after an additional year of surgery in general)
Vascular Surgery - six years

In New Zealand the advanced training programme is a clinically-based training programme extending over four or more years (depending on the branch) and is based on a programme designed to provide progressive experience and responsibility.

The objectives of the programme are the acquiring of:

• knowledge in depth of the areas belonging to that branch,
• knowledge of relevant areas of other surgical branches,
• knowledge of the practical aspects of rehabilitation for surgical patients,
• knowledge of the practical aspects of palliative care in the branch,
• expertise in research and audit,
• understanding of medico-legal and ethical issues relating to surgery

Can you demonstrate significant operative and clinical experience?

New Zealand trainees are expected to undertake graduated, practical experience and to record this in a surgical log book. Satisfactory assessment reports from supervisors must be obtained every 6 months.

Towards the end of your advanced training did you pass an examination or assessment?

All components of the FRACS Part II must be passed during the one examination attempt. The Part II examination consists of:

• written section: at least two papers which may include a section on surgical and developmental anatomy,
• clinical examination: two separate parts with separate marks,
• oral section: including surgical pathology, operative surgery, surgical and developmental anatomy, and additional material as determined by the Board.

NB Orthopaedic Applicants: Orthopaedic trainees also sit a written Orthopaedic Principles and Basic Science examination, usually in the first or second year of advanced training.

Satisfactory completion of basic and advanced surgical training, and passing the FRACS Part I and Part II examinations qualify the doctor for the award of the Diploma of Fellowship of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).

Do you participate in a continuing medical education programme to ensure your knowledge and skills are current?

In New Zealand surgeons registered within a vocational scope of practice will be required to participate in an approved recertification programme, such as the RACS programme which includes continuing medical education, self audit, peer review and hospital credentialling.