A qualitative evaluation of trainee and educator experiences of Integrated Training Posts in one Vocational Training Scheme

Integrated Training Posts (ITPs) were conceived in the 1990s and have recently increased in the Southwest of England. Most ITP evaluations have been small and undertaken over 13 years ago, so do not reflect the current training landscape. This qualitative study aimed to explore the views and experiences of ITPs amongst general practice trainees and educators. The location has increasing numbers of general practice trainees, International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and less-than-full-time trainees. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with six trainees and two educators; all had experienced at least one ITP. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and coded. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Three themes were identified: ‘The role: expectations versus reality’, ‘Relevance of ITPs to future GP role’ and ‘Educational Challenges’. Most trainees valued the additional clinical experiences ITPs offered, as well as being able to trial ‘portfolio’ working. Trainee and educator expectations varied considerably, particularly whether the role was primarily service or observational. Working across multiple settings could limit contact between educator and trainee and make it difficult to identify a struggling trainee. There is a need to clarify the roles of trainees and educators involved in ITPs and whether and how this might vary between posts. Further studies could explore whether choice of ITP influences retention of general practitioners, and whether all trainees including those working less-than-full-time or IMGs benefit from ITPs.