Working patterns of trainee anaesthetists in the UK: results of a national postal survey.

Abstract

The 'New Deal' restrictions on junior doctors' hours have major implications for the staffing of anaesthetic departments and the provision of adequate training. The results of a national postal survey demonstrate a decline in traditional on-call arrangements, especially in hard-pressed work sectors such as intensive care. A substantial number of anaesthetic departments have still completely to satisfy the hours restrictions in many work sectors. Many departments experience recruitment difficulties and express concern about both service and training issues.