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Higher psychiatric trainees and the Calman reforms

Teaching and Research Division, Royal Dundee Liff Hospital, Dundee DD2 5NF

^* Correspondence

Aims and method The specialist registrar (SpR) grade was introduced in 1996, taking the place of the senior registrar (SR) grade. We surveyed higher trainees in Scotland in order to draw comparisons between the two grades and assess satisfaction with the changes. A postal questionnaire was sent to all higher trainees (n=129) in Scotland seeking information on structure of training, work patterns and views.

Results Sixty-two per cent of trainees responded. There was little difference in the activity and structure of training between SRs and SpRs. Seventy per cent of responders felt that the SpR grade had not improved training.

Clinical implications The survey uncovered dissatisfaction with the new grade, but little objective evidence of differences between SRs and SpRs. More flexibility for time in higher training and restoring the SR title would help to improve morale.