P228 Use of the independent sector to support NHS endoscopy training; preliminary results of a pilot study

IntroductionTraining a future endoscopy workforce is vital to support increasing demand for endoscopy services, but can be limited by current acute endoscopy unit capacity. Involvement of the independent sector may offer an alternative option to support endoscopy training. After collaborative discussion between acute NHS trusts, integrated care board, regional endoscopy training academy and an independent provider, a pilot program was initiated. This pilot study aims to assess the practical involvement of the independent sector with NHS endoscopist training.MethodsA JAG accredited independent endoscopy unit provided ‘cold site’ capacity for up to 4 endoscopy lists per week for 19 weeks. Two novice clinical endoscopists were included (one colonoscopy trainee, one in trans-nasal gastroscopy). Trainers were from acute trusts and the regional endoscopy academy provided a financial supplement in lieu of reduced activity. The regional endoscopy academy and NHSE-SW quality assured the project. Pre-defined key performance indicators were evaluated after an interim 10 week period. These included number and output of training lists, trainee progression, impact on private provider usual activity and qualitative feedback from patients, trainees, trainers and wider stakeholders.ResultsDuring the initial 10 week period 23 training lists (10 colonoscopy, 13 trans-nasal gastroscopy) were undertaken, achieving a mean 7.04 points per list (86 gastroscopy, 38 colonoscopy). Trainees were involved in 87.6% of procedures. There was no unintended drop in overall unit planned activity. There were no adverse events, patient complaints and patient satisfaction scores were above 95%. Wider feedback from trainers, local trust and the independent provider was positive, citing benefit of collaboration. Completion of the pilot in March 2023 will allow further analysis of trainee acceleration, but initial extrapolation suggest a reduction in time to accrue minimum numbers for certification in both gastroscopy (14 to 5 months) and colonoscopy (50 to 16 months).ConclusionThis is a successful pilot that provided additional immersion training for clinical endoscopists outside of acute trust. It demonstrates that a collaborative approach between independent sector and acute trusts can increase endoscopy training capacity. A positive trainee experience was demonstrated and further work will assess impact on trainee acceleration and host trust activity. This pilot provides lessons for other uni