New national survey launched to strengthen doctor training in Aotearoa
The Medical Council has today launched Torohia – Medical Training Survey for New Zealand, a new survey designed with the profession, for the profession, to better understand doctors’ experience of postgraduate training.
This is the first time New Zealand will get a national, view of the experience of doctors in training.
Doctors in accredited training posts across the motu are being invited to complete the anonymous survey, which aims to build a clearer picture of the learning environment — from clinical supervision and workload, to wellbeing, inclusion, and cultural safety.
“Torohia is about hearing directly from doctors in training — what’s working, what isn’t, and what needs to change,” said Dr Rachelle Love, Chair, Medical Council of New Zealand. “The survey has been developed in consultation with trainees, medical educators, laypeople and subject matter experts. "The trainee voice matters. It's your way of telling us how we need to support changes to improve your training".
Why now?
Improving training is also key to retaining doctors. While doctor registration numbers have increased, retention remains a challenge.
The survey will gather insights from a wide range of doctors in training — including PGY1 and PGY2 doctors, those who have passed NZREX, and those enrolled in accredited vocational (specialist) training programmes.
“A strong response will give us a clearer picture of what doctors are experiencing — what’s working well, and where improvements are needed. With many leaving early in their careers, this survey will help us better understand how to support them to stay and thrive in Aotearoa. The aim is simple: keep good doctors practising safely, for longer.” Dr Love said.
Key features of the survey:
- It’s anonymous: All responses are anonymous and cannot be linked to individual doctors.
- It’s safe: Individual responses will not be shared with employers or supervisors.
- It’s meaningful: Anonymised results will help training providers identify strengths and areas for improvement. The Council will also use findings in training accreditation processes and to consider regulatory or policy changes where needed.
- It centres equity: The survey includes questions on cultural safety and was shaped with input from Council’s expert Māori advisory group, Te Kāhui Whakamana Tiriti, and its consumer advisory group, Whakawaha.
The results will provide a clearer view of how doctors are supported through the early stages of their career — and offer evidence to help guide improvements across the sector.
The survey opens today and will remain open until midnight 8 September 2025. Results will be shared later this year.