[Simulation training for French obstetrics and gynecology residents: A national survey in 2022]

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the use of simulation among French Obstetrics and Gynecology residency programs.

Methods: A survey was conducted with all 28 French residency program directors. The questionnaire covered equipment and human resources, training programs, types of simulation tools and time spent.

Results: Of the cities hosting a residency program, 93% (26/28) responded regarding equipment and human resources, and 75% (21/28) responded regarding training program details. All respondents declared having at least one structure dedicated to simulation. A formal training program was reported by 81% (21/26) of cities. This training program was mandatory in 73% of the cases. There was a median number of seven senior trainers involved, three of whom had received a specific training in medical education. Most of declared simulation activities concerned technical skills in obstetrics and surgery. Simulations to practice breaking bad news were offered by 62% (13/21) of cities. The median number of half-days spent annually on simulation training was 55 (IQR: 38-83).

Conclusion: Simulation training is now widely available among French residency programs. There remains heterogeneity between centers regarding equipment, time spent and content of simulation curricula. The French College of Teachers of Gynecology and Obstetrics has proposed a roadmap for the content of simulation-based training based on the results of this survey. An inventory of all existing "train the trainers" simulation programs in France is also provided.

Keywords: Education; Gynecology; Gynécologie; Internat; Obstetrics; Obstétrique; Residency; Simulation; Éducation.