SPECIALTY TRAINING CURRICULUM

FOR

GASTROENTEROLOGY

AND

SUB-SPECIALTY TRAINING
CURRICULUM

FOR

HEPATOLOGY

AUGUST 2010
(AMENDMENTS AUGUST 2013)

Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board

5 St Andrews Place
Regent’s Park
London NW1 4LB

Telephone: (020) 3075 1649

Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jrcptb.org.uk

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 Table of Contents
1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 3
2 Rationale ........................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Purpose of the Curriculum ....................................................................................... 5
2.2 Development ............................................................................................................ 6
2.3 Training Pathway and Entry Requirements ............................................................. 8
2.4 Enrolment with JRCPTB........................................................................................... 9
2.5 Duration of Training .................................................................................................. 9
2.6 Less Than Full Time Training (LTFT) ..................................................................... 10
2.7 Dual Certification of Completion of Training .......................................................... 10
3 Content of Learning ........................................................................................................ 10
3.1 Programme Content and Objectives ...................................................................... 10
3.2 Good Medical Practice ........................................................................................... 12
3.3 Syllabus .................................................................................................................. 15
4 Learning and Teaching ................................................................................................. 132
4.1 The Training Programme ..................................................................................... 132
4.2 Teaching and Learning Methods .......................................................................... 133
4.3 Research .............................................................................................................. 136
4.3 Academic Training................................................................................................ 137
5 Assessment................................................................................................................... 138
5.1 The Assessment System ..................................................................................... 138
5.2 Joint Advisory Group of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG) ................................ 139
5.3 Assessment Blueprint........................................................................................... 139
5.4 Assessment methods ........................................................................................... 139
5.5 Decisions on progress (ARCP) ............................................................................ 141
5.6 ARCP Decision Aid .............................................................................................. 143
5.7 Penultimate Year Assessment (PYA) .................................................................. 149
5.8 Complaints and Appeals ...................................................................................... 149
6 Supervision and feedback ............................................................................................. 149
6.1 Supervision ........................................................................................................... 149
6.2 Appraisal .............................................................................................................. 151
7 Managing curriculum implementation ........................................................................... 152
7.1 Intended use of curriculum by trainers and trainees ............................................ 153
7.2 Recording progress .............................................................................................. 153
8 Curriculum Review and Updating ................................................................................. 154
9 Equality and diversity .................................................................................................... 155
10 Acknowledgements ....................................................................................................... 157

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1 Introduction
Specialist training in gastroenterology begins at ST1 level, although training in the
first two years is general and need not necessarily include experience of working in a
gastroenterology unit. Yet in an important respect, postgraduate training in the
specialty begins during the foundation programme where the fundamental skills of
history taking and examination are honed. Although diagnosis in gastroenterology
often requires a very complex investigational approach, common conditions such as
irritable bowel syndrome are diagnosed not by a series of tests but by clinical
assessment. Indeed, many of those who choose to become gastroenterologists are
very attracted by its combination of the use of fundamental clinical skills with some of
the most sophisticated technology of modern medicine.

Gastroenterology is one of the major specialties of internal medicine yet is a much

younger discipline than cardiology, neurology and thoracic medicine. The specialty
has grown incredibly fast over the past 30 years and even as recently as the 1970s
there were many hospitals without consultant gastroenterologists. There are several
factors that have led to the substantial growth of gastroenterology as a specialty.

1 Endoscopy in Diagnosis and Treatment.

The role of endoscopy in diagnosis has progressively extended into therapy and
endoscopic techniques have now largely replaced surgery in the management
of gastrointestinal haemorrhage, non-malignant tumours of the colon and some
causes of bile duct obstruction. While proficiency in upper GI endoscopy is
required of most clinical gastroenterologists, some of the more specialised
techniques and in particular Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-
Pancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) require specialised
training.

2 Technology of Diagnosis
The technological developments in radiology with ultrasound and axial imaging
employing both CT and MRI have vastly enhanced the process of diagnosis in
clinical gastroenterology and, like endoscopy, these techniques have
increasingly become interventional.

3 Therapeutics in Gastroenterology.
There have been substantial advances in treatment of many common
conditions. Some are readily utilised in primary care while others, such as
options for treating patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), require a
high level of expertise

4 Management of Gastrointestinal Cancer.

Gastrointestinal cancers are common. The most important factor contributing to
survival is early diagnosis where the role of medical gastroenterology is crucial.
Cancer prevention is of increasing importance.

5 Impact of Liver Disease.

There has been a progressive increase in the incidence of alcoholic liver
disease but perhaps less well known is the increase in patients with viral
hepatitis whose treatment is highly specialised. The range of treatments for
patients with chronic liver disease, which includes transplantation, has rapidly
expanded. It was in response to the perceived need for specialists in liver
disease that the Specialist Training Authority (fore-runner of GMC) approved
hepatology as a sub-specialty of gastroenterology in 2004.

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Specialists in gastroenterology are trained to deal with highly complex conditions such
as uncontrolled gastrointestinal haemorrhage, complicated IBD and acute hepatic
failure yet they must also be skilled in treating patients with persisting dyspepsia in
whom ulcer disease has been excluded, in managing patients with irritable bowel
syndrome who have not responded to treatments in primary care and indeed up to a
third of the workload of a gastroenterologist in clinic might be taken up with patients who
have functional gut disorders. Successful treatment of such patients requires a portfolio
of skills, many of which are not to be found in prescribing manuals.

Most patients who are referred to gastroenterologists from primary care are assessed in
the outpatient clinic and appropriate investigation is performed without resort to
admission to hospital. Many Trusts will have specialist clinics where the needs of
patients with, for example, IBD or coeliac disease can be managed. The role of the
nurse specialist in gastroenterology has developed greatly over the past ten years not
just to help in the management of patients with IBD and cancer but to support and
provide endoscopy services. In addition to liaison with nurse specialists, medical
gastroenterologists require close interaction with:

 Surgeons.
 Diagnostic and interventional radiologists.
 Pathologists.
 Oncologists.

A particular example of close multi-disciplinary working is the contemporary

management of gastrointestinal cancer where regular multi-disciplinary team meetings
function to optimise patient management by directing patients along the most
appropriate management pathway. Interactions between gastroenterologists, surgeons,
radiologists and pathologists are essential in the management of patients with
complicated IBD. Hepatologists develop crucial links with radiological and colleagues
and the importance of their close liaison with histopathologists is long established.

Most consultant gastroenterologists in the UK and most specialty registrars training in

gastroenterology choose to train both in their specialty with as well as in General
Internal Medicine (GIM). Gastroenterology is the most general of the major medical
specialities. This curriculum recognises that most trainees will wish to obtain dual
accreditation and then practise both as specialist gastroenterologists and as general
physicians. Yet gastroenterology as a specialty can stand alone.

While most gastroenterologists provide a broad, comprehensive service, there is a

perceived need for some clinicians in the speciality to deliver a high quality service in
very specific areas. Some modalities of endoscopy are so highly specialised and require
such a high degree of technical proficiency that it is appropriate to focus training
opportunities here on a selected number of individual who show a high level of potential
during their training. So the present curriculum outlines a programme for advanced
training in endoscopy of the bile ducts and pancreas (ERCP) as well as in endoscopic
ultrasound (EUS). In a similar vein, although all gastroenterologists should be
competent to manage the majority of patients with IBD who come under their care, it is
recognised that a proportion of such patients are highly complex and require very
specialised management. The gastroenterology community has been working towards
developing IBD Service Standards and it is clear that, in specialised centres, highly
trained individuals will be required to provide the service. Clinical nutrition has been a
neglected area within medicine not least because it has been something of an orphan.
However, it has now been very much welcomed into the family of gastroenterology and

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clinical nutrition has become an important part of the syllabus. The present curriculum
recognises the increasing importance of nutrition in both health and disease but in
addition, reacts to the need to ensure that a higher standard of clinical services must be
provided for patients who have severe nutritional disorders. This requires an
improvement in the standard of training of all gastroenterologists in clinical nutrition and,
for the few who wish to specialise, a period advanced training.

In the present curriculum, it is also recognised that the training of all gastroenterologists
and hepatologists should be enhanced to enable them to cope with the increasing
burden of chronic liver disease in the community. This is reflected in the curriculum
where the standards of training in liver disease have been comprehensively developed
in close liaison with hepatologists.

Gastroenterology has evolved much faster than any other comparable major specialty.
The 2010 curriculum is a very substantial revision of its forebears and should be seen
as a living document that will respond rapidly both to developments in the specialty and
to the needs of clinical service.

2 Rationale
2.1 Purpose of the Curriculum
The purpose of this curriculum is to define the process of training and the
competencies needed for the award of:

 A certificate of completion of training (CCT) in Gastroenterology.

 Sub-specialty recognition in Hepatology for those who have completed the
advanced training programme.

The unequivocal aim of the curriculum is to deliver a programme of training which

when completed will enable the successful individual to practise independently as a
gastroenterologist trained to the level of a consultant physician in the United
Kingdom. For those individuals who express a specialist interest in hepatology and
have competed successfully for one of the advanced hepatology training posts, there
will be recognition of their enhanced skills which will enable trainees who complete
that programme to deliver a specialised clinical service in liver disease.

The training programme is demanding and to complete it satisfactorily requires a

portfolio of relevant specialist clinical skills as well as technical proficiency in
endoscopy.

It is expected that most trainees following the gastroenterology (+/- hepatology)

curriculum to CCT level will be doing so in parallel with the training programme in
general internal medicine. Yet it should be emphasised that this curriculum is free-
standing and specifies the training that is required and competencies that must be
achieved to practice independently as a specialist in gastroenterology. Trainees in
gastroenterology will have begun their post-graduate career at Foundation Year level
(or equivalent). They will have satisfactorily completed the first and second
Foundation Years having acquired a grounding in medical and surgical specialities
and many will have had experience of acute gastrointestinal emergencies in the
Accident & Emergency Department.

Following satisfactory progression through the Foundation Years, potential trainees

in gastroenterology will have entered a programme of specialist training either at
Core Medical Training level or on the Acute Medicine Component of Acute Care

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Common Stem training scheme. It is appropriate that such trainees are exposed to a
range of acute medical specialties and following completion of the two year
programme and having acquired Part I of the MRCP exam, they will be in a position
to apply for entry into this specialist training programme in gastroenterology at ST3
level. Trainees from the European Union and elsewhere who have completed
training programmes in their own countries comparable to those of the Foundation
Year and ST1 and ST2 have also completed MRCP Part I will also be eligible for
entry at ST3. It should be noted that from 2011 onwards, it will be a mandatory
requirement for entry into the gastroenterology training programme at ST3 to have
passed the full MRCP examination.

The primary purpose of the curriculum is to provide a programme of training which,

when successfully completed, will have armed the trainee with all of the
competencies required to practice as an independent specialist gastroenterologist.
Although it is likely (and indeed encouraged) that trainees will develop particular
clinical interests during their training years, the curriculum is designed to train across
the breadth and depth of the entire subject so, for example, while a trainee may have
followed the Advanced Hepatology part of the curriculum and will thus be able to
offer specialist skills in Hepatology, they will also have all of the core clinical and
investigational skills. The curriculum will enable trainees equally to have all the skills
to assess and manage patients in clinics as well as inpatients. They will be able to
select investigations appropriately and have reached a standard of performance in
gastrointestinal endoscopy that will enable them to practise these procedures
independently. Trainees will have acquired the skills to pass on their experience to
the next generation be they undergraduate or postgraduate medical trainees or those
in allied disciplines. They will have acquired a portfolio of generic skills particularly
those including leadership and management crucial not only to running a clinical
service but also to developing that service. Finally, they will be given such a
grounding in the specialty that will serve as a platform for Continued Professional
Development in the context of life-long learning.

The curriculum has mapped the four domains of the Good Medical Practice
Framework for Appraisal and Assessment to its content which has provided the
opportunity to define skills and behaviours which trainees require to communicate
effectively with their patients as well as carers and families and clearly states how
these should be assessed. The curriculum covers training for all four nations of the
UK.

2.2 Development
This curriculum was developed by the Specialty Advisory Committee for
Gastroenterology under the direction of the Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians
Training Board (JRCPTB). It replaces the previous version of the curriculum dated
May 2007, with changes to ensure the curriculum meets GMC’s standards for
Curricula and Assessment, and to incorporate revisions to the content and delivery of
the training programme. Major changes from the previous curriculum include the
incorporation of generic, leadership and health inequalities competencies.

The 2007 curriculum is regarded as having been successful within its own terms but
the SAC felt that it ought to take the opportunity of the triennial curriculum review to
consult widely with the intention of being prepared to undertake major revision where
necessary. There is close liaison between the SAC in Gastroenterology (whose
membership includes the Heads of Specialist Training) and the British Society of
Gastroenterology Training Committee (which largely consists of Programme
Directors in each Deanery). The SAC and BSG held a combined Curriculum

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Conference on 6th March 2009 at the Royal College of Physicians of London at
which the members of both committees were invited as well as the President and
Vice President of the BSG and representatives from sub-specialist committees of the
BSG. Invitations were also extended to the Chairman of the Joint Advisory Group on
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy as well as the British Association for Parenteral and
Enteral Nutrition and British Association for the Study of the Liver. Representation
from the Education Department of the RCP was also sought. Delegates also
included trainee representatives from within the BSG but also the autonomous
Trainees in Gastroenterology (TiGs).

The March 2009 meeting laid the framework for the curriculum re-design. The
meeting considered the likely roles and responsibility of the consultant
gastroenterologist in 2015. It looked at the strengths and weaknesses of the existing
curriculum, what might be omitted and what expanded. The importance of
gastrointestinal endoscopy was considered but in the context of the likely need for
future service provision. The increasing role of the gastroenterologist in clinical
nutrition was seen as already apparent and the demand on gastroenterology for
cancer services was expected to increase. The year-on-year increase in the number
of patients presenting with liver disease was highlighted.

The consensus of the meeting was that the curriculum should continue to look
towards training a broadly based gastroenterologist yet recognise the constraints of
doing this as the European Working Time Directive reduced the number of hours that
trainees were actually available for training. As an example of one of the changes
that has been made, skills in flexible sigmoidoscopy will no longer be a mandatory
requirement for CCT although proficiency in diagnostic and therapeutic upper GI
endoscopy remains.

The Curriculum Conference also addressed sub-specialisation. The trainees’ group,

TiGs, carried out a very detailed survey of how their members perceived their training
during the year 2008. Although there was broad satisfaction, a number of issues
emerged and in particular the trainees wanted better training in clinical nutrition and
also wished for the opportunity to sub-specialise. Hepatology became a sub-
specialty in 2004 but the conference discussed the need for further sub-
specialisation. The areas considered were:

 Advanced nutrition.
 Advanced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
 Advanced endoscopy (ERCP and EUS).

Training in nutrition and IBD is required for all trainees. There are centres in the UK
where patients with complex nutritional needs are referred so appropriately trained
staff are required to look after such patients as indeed they are for patients with
complex inflammatory bowel disease. Although all trainees will be proficient in upper
GI endoscopy by CCT and most will wish to become proficient in colonoscopy, the
conference felt that achieving proficiency in ERCP and EUS required a dedicated
period of intense training. To produce more gastroenterologists with EUS skills was
seen as meeting an important need as there are insufficient numbers of specialists to
meet the national demand.

There was some discussion as to whether the core curriculum should be radically
redesigned with the aim of reducing the core content and developing a raft of
modules so that by CCT trainees would have acquired both core skills and a number
of additional modules. This was attractive to a number of delegates at the conference

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but was ultimately rejected principally for two reasons. The first was the impossibility
of restructuring the entire UK training programme in a short space of time; the
second was that it was very uncertain that trusts would wish to appoint a
gastroenterologist with substantially less breadth to their training than at present.

Nevertheless, there was unanimous recognition that the alterations in the 2010
curriculum may well be a stepping stone to a future in which a wider number of
trainees would gain advanced specialist skills.

The notes of the meeting of 6th March were widely disseminated within the British
Society of Gastroenterology and discussed at formal meetings of the BSG Training
Committee as well as the SAC. The ideas were discussed at the BSG Strategy
Group, by the trainees section of the BSG and by TiGs. The green light was given
from all sections of the gastroenterology community including trainers and trainees to
proceed with drafting the present document from the outlines above.

2.3 Training Pathway and Entry Requirements

Specialty training in Gastroenterology consists of core and higher speciality training.
Core training provides physicians with: the ability to investigate, treat and diagnose
patients with acute and chronic medical symptoms; and with high quality review skills
for managing inpatients and outpatients. Higher speciality training then builds on
these core skills to develop the specific competencies required to practise
independently as a consultant Gastroenterologist.

Core training may be completed in either a Core Medical Training (CMT) or Acute
Care Common Stem (ACCS) programme. The full curriculum for specialty training in
Gastroenterology therefore consists of the curriculum for either CMT or ACCS plus
this specialty training curriculum for Gastroenterology. Experience of clinical
gastroenterology during core training is desirable although not essential.

Core Medical training programmes are designed to deliver core competencies as part
of specialty training by acquisition of knowledge, skills and behaviours as assessed
by the workplace-based assessments and the MRCP(UK). Programmes are usually
for two years and are broad-based consisting of four to six placements in medical
specialties. These placements over the two years must include direct involvement in
the acute medical take. Trainees are asked to document their record of workplace-
based assessments in an ePortfolio which will then be continued to document
assessments in specialty training. Trainees completing core training will have a solid
platform of common knowledge and skills from which to continue into Specialty
Training at ST3, where these skills will be developed and combined with specialty
knowledge and skills in order to award the trainee with a certificate of completion of
training (CCT).

There are common competencies that should be acquired by all physicians during
their training period starting within the undergraduate career and developed
throughout the postgraduate career, for example communication, examination and
history taking skills. These are initially defined for CMT and then developed further in
the specialty. This curriculum supports the spiral nature of learning that underpins a
trainee’s continual development. It recognises that for many of the competences
outlined there is a maturation process whereby practitioners become more adept and
skilled as their career and experience progresses. It is intended that doctors should
recognise that the acquisition of basic competences is often followed by an
increasing sophistication and complexity of that competence throughout their career.
This is reflected by increasing expertise in their chosen career pathway.

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Completion of CMT or ACCS and acquisition of full MRCP (UK) will be required
before entry into Specialty training at ST3 (2011 onwards).

The approved curriculum for CMT is a sub-set of the Curriculum for General Internal
Medicine (GIM). A “Framework for CMT” has been created for the convenience of
trainees, supervisors, tutors and programme directors. The body of the Framework
document has been extracted from the approved curriculum but only includes the
syllabus requirements for CMT and not the further requirements for acquiring a CCT
in GIM.

Diagrammatic Representation of Curricula:

Minimum
84 months
to
completion
Selection Selection

ST3 ST4 ST5 ST6 ST7

F1 Core Medical
and Training or Gastroenterology and GIM
F2 Acute Care Training
Common Stem

MRCP (UK) SCE

Workplace-Based Assessments

Diagram 1.1 - The training pathway for CCT in Gastroenterology and GIM

2.4 Enrolment with JRCPTB

Trainees are required to register for specialist training with JRCPTB at the start of
their training programmes. Enrolment with JRCPTB, including the complete payment
of enrolment fees, is required before JRCPTB will be able to recommend trainees for
a CCT. Trainees can enrol online at www.jrcptb.org.uk

2.5 Duration of Training

Although this curriculum is competency based, the duration of training must meet the
European minimum of four years of full time specialty training - adjusted accordingly
for flexible training (EU directive 2005/36/EC). The SAC has advised that joint
training in General Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology from ST1 will usually be
completed in seven years of full time training (two years CMT or ACCS plus five
years specialty training).

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2.6 Less Than Full Time Training (LTFT)
Trainees who are unable to work full-time are entitled to opt for less than full time
training programmes. EC Directive 2005/36/EC requires that:

 LTFT shall meet the same requirements as full-time training, from which it will
differ only in the possibility of limiting participation in medical activities.
 The competent authorities shall ensure that the competencies achieved and the
quality of part-time training are not less than those of full-time trainees.

The above provisions must be adhered to. LTFT trainees should undertake a pro rata
share of the out-of-hours duties (including on-call and other out-of-hours
commitments) required of their full-time colleagues in the same programme and at
the equivalent stage.

EC Directive 2005/36/EC states that there is no longer a minimum time requirement

on training for LTFT trainees. In the past, less than full time trainees were required to
work a minimum of 50% of full time. With competence-based training, in order to
retain competence, in addition to acquiring new skills, less than full time trainees
would still normally be expected to work a minimum of 50% of full time. If you are
returning or converting to training at less than full time please complete the LTFT
application form on the JRCPTB website www.jrcptb.org.uk .

Funding for LTFT is from deaneries and these posts are not supernumerary. Ideally
therefore 2 LTFT trainees should share one post to provide appropriate service
cover.

Less than full time trainees should assume that their clinical training will be of a
duration pro-rata with the time indicated/recommended, but this should be reviewed
during annual appraisal by their TPD and chair of STC and Deanery Associate Dean
for LTFT training. As long as the statutory European Minimum Training Time (if
relevant), has been exceeded, then indicative training times as stated in curricula
may be adjusted in line with the achievement of all stated competencies.

2.7 Dual Certification of Completion of Training

Trainees who wish to achieve a CCT in General Internal Medicine (GIM) as well as
Gastroenterology must have applied for and successfully entered a training
programme which was advertised openly as a dual training programme. Trainees
will need to show evidence of achieving the various competencies required in both
the Gastroenterology and GIM curricula. Postgraduate Deans wishing to advertise
such programmes should ensure that they meet the requirements of both SACs
curricula. Trainees seeking sub-certification in Hepatology must have applied in open
competition for one of the16 approved training posts – normally undertaken in the
penultimate year of training and for CCT will also be required to have shown
evidence of competencies in that sub-specialty as specified in this curriculum.

3 Content of Learning
3.1 Programme Content and Objectives
This section comprises the Knowledge and Skills that have to be learned as well as
Behaviours that have to be displayed in order to practise independently as a
specialist gastroenterologist.

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It is divided into four sections

1. Common Competencies for all Doctors

2. Core Competencies for all Specialist Gastroenterologists.

In essence, the curriculum is designed to produce a broadly trained

gastroenterologist who, while potentially having gained particular experience in
individual areas, will still be competent to deliver high quality of care to all patients
presenting with gastrointestinal or liver disease. Major changes in the 2010 syllabus
for clinical gastroenterology compared to that of 2007 are:

 A new section on Basic and Applied Science

 Stronger focus on Liver disease and Clinical Nutrition
 Endoscopic training mandatory only in Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Expertise in gastric function tests and in flexible sigmoidoscopy is no longer required

for CCT. Although the SAC in gastroenterology wish to encourage trainees most
strongly to spend a period of time in research, it should be noted that no training
credit can be given for periods of research – although it may be possible ad
personam to grant some credit for clinical knowledge, skills and behaviours acquired
where there is a significant component of clinical training during the time spent in
research.

Most gastroenterologists appointed to consultant posts in the UK do practise very

broadly and there is no evidence at present that this situation will change.
Nevertheless, as gastroenterology has grown, some areas have become increasingly
specialised and so the SAC recognises the widespread call from the
gastroenterological community to develop a training programme to allow for further
specialisation. This has led to an additional section of the curriculum

3. Specialist areas in Hepatology, Nutrition, IBD (inflammatory bowel

disease) and ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography)
and EUS (endoscopic ultrasound).

Hepatology is an approved sub-specialty. It is not proposed to seek formal sub-

speciality status for the other three specialist areas. Training in these areas will
normally take place during the fourth year (ST6) of training.

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 ST6

Hepatology

ST3-ST4-ST5 Nutrition ST7

Core Core Core

IBD

Endoscopy

Diagram 1.2– Outline of Specialist areas within training

pathway
Trainees in advanced hepatology will continue to spend a full year of their training in
the subspecialty area. Those training in one of the other three specialist areas will
devote 50% of their time to training in the specialty area and the other 50% to
continuing their broad training. They will gain particular experience in managing
patients with complex IBD or complex nutritional needs or will have several training
sessions in ERCP/EUS. They should be seen as posts not so much as having
exclusive sub-speciality training (as will be the case with advanced hepatology) but
there will be a strong focus on these additional skills. In this way, the SAC feels that it
can meet the needs of the clinical demand to train some specialists with those
specialised skills to practise modern clinical gastroenterology.

3.2 Good Medical Practice

In preparation for the introduction of licensing and revalidation, the General Medical
Council has translated Good Medical Practice into a Framework for Appraisal and
Assessment which provides a foundation for the development of the appraisal and
assessment system for revalidation. The Framework can be accessed at
http://www.gmc-uk.org/Framework_4_3.pdf_25396256.pdf

The Framework for Appraisal and Assessment covers the following domains:
Domain 1 – Knowledge, Skills and Performance
Domain 2 – Safety and Quality
Domain 3 – Communication, Partnership and Teamwork
Domain 4 – Maintaining Trust

The “GMP” column in the syllabus defines which of the 4 domains of the Good
Medical Practice Framework for Appraisal and Assessment are addressed by each
competency. Most parts of the syllabus relate to “Knowledge, Skills and
Performance” but some parts will also relate to other domains.

In the tables below, the “Assessment Methods” shown are those that are appropriate
as possible methods that could be used to assess each competency. It is not
expected that all competencies will be assessed and that where they are assessed
not every method will be used. See section 5.3 for more details.

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“GMP” defines which of the 4 domains of the Good Medical Practice Framework for
Appraisal and Assessment are addressed by each competency.

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Behaviours of Trainees in Gastroenterology
The knowledge, skills and behaviours are specified in detail and in each section of
the curriculum but we wish also to specify some generic behaviours that are
expected of all trainees in gastroenterology. These include a number of behaviours
that we strongly believe our trainees and specialists should acquire and demonstrate
during professional practice. While the emphasis may vary according to the particular
clinical context, these behaviours are largely generic. In this curriculum, it is expected
that the trainee will continuously exhibit all of the following behaviours
throughout all areas of their practice. Indeed, it is inconceivable that trainees and
specialists should be dishonest or prejudiced, or that they should only try to
communicate promptly with some professionals and not others.

For the sake of clarity and to avoid unnecessary repetition, these generic behaviours
are not therefore repeatedly listed in every ‘Behaviours’ domain although, where
particular aspects are felt to be specifically relevant or important, these are
emphasised.

Generic Behaviours
Gastroenterologists should:
 Be sensitive, empathic, open and honest in communicating with patients and
relatives, or carers/patient advocates as appropriate.
 Appropriately challenge lifestyle and social practices where relevant to health
 Not be discriminating or judgemental with patients with any condition
 Maintain knowledge, skills and competence in all areas of practice, through
continued and self-directed education and reflection.
 Review performance and initiates appropriate personal CPD accordingly
 Strive to provide care based on evidence wherever possible
 Be aware of limits of competence, seek advice from and refer appropriately to
specialists, colleagues, and other members of the multidisciplinary team.
 Communicate promptly with all health professionals relevant to a patient’s care
 Prioritise clinical care, and be able to assess and treat patients with the
appropriate degree of urgency
 Give clear and realistic explanations in understandable language appropriate
to the knowledge, understanding, cultural and psycho-social background of
individual patients, including treatment options and alternatives
 Manage patients with care and compassion.
 Involve patient and family as appropriate in decision making.
 Ensure and verify the patient’s understanding and the significance of informed
consent.
 Participates fully in Quality Assurance and alters practice to improve quality
through audit and reflection
 Seek and adopt good management practice to enable the delivery of high
quality service and work and use resources efficiently
 Carry out routine and on-call duties conscientiously and reliably
 Respond appropriately to untoward incidents and adverse events, and
participate in standard governance and reporting procedures honestly and
without prejudice.
 Practise in accordance with the core ethical principles
 Direct patients to other sources of help, such as voluntary organisations,
charities, and patient groups.

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Page 14 of 157
3.3 Syllabus
Syllabus Content

1. Common Competencies ...................................................................................................... 16

2. Core Competencies for all Gastroenterologists ................................................................... 58
a) Basic and Applied Science in Gastroenterology ................................................................. 58
b) Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders ............................................................................... 62
c) Intestinal Disorders .............................................................................................................. 66
d) Nutrition ............................................................................................................................... 73
e) Hepatology .......................................................................................................................... 77
f) Pancreatic and Biliary Disorders .......................................................................................... 88
g) Endoscopy ........................................................................................................................... 91
3. Advanced Specialist Areas .................................................................................................. 97
a) Advanced Hepatology ......................................................................................................... 97
b) Advanced Inflammatory Bowel Disease ............................................................................ 105
c) Advanced Nutrition ............................................................................................................ 113
d) Advanced Endoscopy ........................................................................................................ 128

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 1. Common Competencies
Although the resources that gastroenterologists use to help reach a diagnosis are
highly specialised and technically very sophisticated, in large part, clinical diagnosis
relies on clinical - and very human – skills. A high proportion of patients that clinical
gastroenterologists see have symptoms but not discernible disease. Clinicians rely,
perhaps more than in any other medical speciality, on their fundamental clinical skills
of taking a careful history from their patients. The best clinical gastroenterologists are
listeners…and they are great listeners in that they hear (as well as listen to) what is
being said to them.
It is crucial to the success of the patient-doctor interaction that a good rapport is
established very early on in the consultation. This is especially true when the patient
may have to describe symptoms that they find embarrassing. It is often the non-
verbal clues that astute clinicians find so helpful in coming to a diagnosis. It really
does not matter what sophisticated tests you can recommend, the diagnosis of
irritable bowel syndrome (the commonest disorder for which patient are referred to a
gastroenterologist) relies solely on how the doctor interprets the history – there are
simply no diagnostic tests that can establish the diagnosis.
Of all the highly desirable common skills listed below, for a gastroenterologist, the
crucial skill is the first. By putting the patient and their symptoms at the forefront,
experienced clinical gastroenterologists know that all the technology at their
command is just a means to an end.
It is precisely because gastroenterologists recognise the need for rapport with their
patients that the portfolio of generic skills is, for them, such an important component
of the curriculum.

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History Taking
To develop the ability to elicit a relevant focused history from patients with increasingly complex
issues and in increasingly challenging circumstances
To record the history accurately and synthesise this with relevant clinical examination, establish
a problem list increasingly based on pattern recognition including differential diagnosis(es) and
formulate a management plan that takes account of likely clinical evolution
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises importance of different elements of history mini-CEX 1
Recognises that patients do not present history in structured fashion ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
Knows likely causes and risk factors for conditions relevant to mode mini-CEX 1
of presentation
Recognises that the patient’s agenda and the history should inform mini-CEX 1
examination, investigation and management
Recognises the importance of social and cultural issues and practices CbD 1
that may have an impact on health
Skills
Identifies and overcomes possible barriers to effective communication mini-CEX 1, 3
Manages time and draws consultation to a close appropriately mini-CEX 1, 3
Communicates effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds and mini-CEX, PS 1,3
those with special communication needs, such as the need for
interpreters
Recognises that effective history taking in non-urgent cases may ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
require several discussions with the patient and other parties, over
time
Supplements history with standardised instruments or questionnaires ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
when relevant

Manages alternative and conflicting views from family, carers, friends ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
and members of the multi-professional team
Assimilates history from the available information from patient and ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
other sources including members of the multi-professional team
Recognises and interprets appropriately the use of non verbal mini-CEX 1, 3
communication from patients and carers
Where values and perceptions of health and health promotion mini-CEX 1
conflict, facilitates balanced and mutually respectful decision making
Focuses on relevant aspects of history ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
Maintains focus despite multiple and often conflicting agendas ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3
Behaviours
Shows respect and behaves in accordance with Good Medical ACAT, mini-CEX 3, 4
Practice
Level Descriptor
Obtains, records and presents accurate clinical history relevant to the clinical presentation
1 Elicits most important positive and negative indicators of diagnosis, including an indication of
patient’s views

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 Starts to screen out irrelevant information
Is able to format notes in a logical way and writes legibly
Records regular follow up notes
Demonstrates ability to obtain relevant focussed clinical history in the context of limited time e.g.
outpatients, ward referral
Demonstrates ability to target history to discriminate between likely clinical diagnoses
Records information in most informative fashion
Is able to write a summary of the case when the patient has been seen and clerked by a more
2
junior colleagues
Notes are always, comprehensive, focused and informative
Is able accurately to summarise the details of patient notes
Demonstrates an awareness that effective history taking needs to take due account of patient’s
beliefs and understanding
Demonstrates ability to rapidly obtain relevant history in context of severely ill patients
Demonstrates ability to obtain history in difficult circumstances e.g. from angry or distressed
3 patient / relatives, or where communication difficulties are significant
Demonstrates ability to keep interview focussed on most important clinical issues
Able to write timely. comprehensive, informative letters to patients and to GPs
Able to quickly focus questioning to establish working diagnosis and relate to relevant
examination, investigation and management plan in most acute and common chronic conditions
in almost any environment
4
In the context of non-urgent cases, demonstrates an ability to use time effectively as part of the
information collection process
Writes succinct notes and is able to summarise accurately complex cases

Clinical Examination
To develop the ability to perform focused, relevant and accurate clinical examination in patients
with increasingly complex issues and in increasingly challenging circumstances
To relate physical findings to history in order to establish diagnosis(es) and formulate a
management plan
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the need for a targeted and relevant clinical examination CbD, mini-CEX 1
Understands the basis for clinical signs and the relevance of positive ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
and negative physical signs CEX
Recognises constraints (including those that are cultural and social) CbD, mini-CEX 1
to performing physical examination and strategies that may be used
to overcome them
Be aware of the national and international situation regarding the CbD 1
distribution of disease, the factors that determine health and disease,
and major population health responses
Recognise that personal beliefs and biases exist and understand their CbD 1
impact (positive and negative) on the delivery of health services
Recognises the limitations of physical examination and the need for ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
adjunctive forms of assessment to confirm diagnosis CEX
Recognises when the offer/ use of a chaperone is appropriate or ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
required CEX

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Skills
Performs an examination relevant to the presentation and risk factors ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
that is valid, targeted and time efficient CEX
Recognises the possibility of deliberate harm (both self harm and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
harm by others) in vulnerable patients and report to appropriate CEX
agencies
Actively elicits important clinical findings CbD, mini-CEX 1
Performs relevant adjunctive examinations CbD, mini-CEX 1
Behaviours
Shows respect and behaves in accordance with Good Medical CbD, mini-CEX, MSF 1, 4
Practice
Ensures examination, whilst clinically appropriate, considers social, CbD, mini-CEX, MSF 1, 4
cultural and religious boundaries to examination, appropriately
communicates and makes alternative arrangements where necessary
Level Descriptor
Performs, accurately, describes and records findings from basic physical examination
Elicits most important physical signs
1
Uses and interprets findings adjuncts to basic examination appropriately e.g. internal
examination, blood pressure measurement, pulse oximetry, peak flow
Performs focussed clinical examination directed to presenting complaint e.g. cardiorespiratory,
abdominal pain
2 Actively seeks and elicits relevant positive and negative signs
Uses and interprets findings adjuncts to basic examination appropriately e.g.
electrocardiography, spirometry, ankle brachial pressure index, fundoscopy
Performs and interprets relevance advanced focussed clinical examination e.g. assessment of
less common joints, neurological examination
3 Elicits subtle findings
Uses and interprets findings of advanced adjuncts to basic examination appropriately e.g.
sigmoidoscopy, FAST ultrasound, echocardiography
Rapidly and accurately performs and interprets focussed clinical examination in challenging
4 circumstances (e.g. acute medical or surgical emergency) or when managing multiple patient
agendas

Therapeutics and Safe Prescribing

To develop your ability to prescribe, review and monitor appropriate therapeutic interventions
relevant to clinical practice including non-medication-based therapeutic and preventative
indications
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Indications, contraindications, side effects, drug interactions and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
dosage of commonly used drugs CEX
Recalls range of adverse drug reactions to commonly used drugs, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
including complementary medicines CEX
Recalls drugs requiring therapeutic drug monitoring and interpret ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
results CEX
Outlines tools to promote patient safety and prescribing, including ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2

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electronic clinical record systems and other IT systems CEX
Defines the effects of age, body size, organ dysfunction and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
concurrent illness on drug distribution and metabolism relevant to the CEX
trainee’s practice
Recognises the roles of regulatory agencies involved in drug use, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
monitoring and licensing (e.g. National Institute for Clinical Excellence CEX
(NICE), Committee on Safety of Medicines (CSM), and Healthcare
Products Regulatory Agency and hospital formulary committees
Skills
Reviews the continuing need for, effect of and adverse effects of long ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
term medications relevant to the trainee’s clinical practice CEX
Anticipates and avoids defined drug interactions, including ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
complementary medicines CEX
Advises patients (and carers) about important interactions and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
adverse drug effects CEX
Prescribes appropriately in pregnancy, and during breast feeding ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Makes appropriate dose adjustments following therapeutic drug ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
monitoring, or physiological change (e.g. deteriorating renal function) CEX
Uses IT prescribing tools where available to improve safety ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
CEX
Employs validated methods to improve patient concordance with ACAT, mini-CEX 1,3
prescribed medication
Provides comprehensible explanations to the patient, and carers ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
when relevant, for the use of medicines and understands the CEX
principles of concordance in ensuring that drug regimes are followed
Understanding of the importance of non-medication based ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
therapeutic interventions including the legitimate role of placebos CEX
Where involved in “repeat prescribing,” ensures safe systems for ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
monitoring, review and authorisation CEX
Behaviours
Recognises the benefit of minimising number of medications taken by ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
a patient to a level compatible with best care CEX
Appreciates the role of non-medical prescribers ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
CEX
Remains open to advice from other health professionals on ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
medication issues CEX
Recognises the importance of resources when prescribing, including ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
the role of a Drug Formulary and electronic prescribing systems CEX
Ensures prescribing information is shared promptly and accurately ACAT, CbD 1,3
between a patient’s health providers, including between primary and
secondary care
Participates in adverse drug event reporting mechanisms mini-CEX, CbD 1
Remains up to date with therapeutic alerts, and responds ACAT, CbD 1
appropriately
Level Descriptor
1 Understands the importance of patient compliance with prescribed medication

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 Outlines the adverse effects of commonly prescribed medicines
Uses reference works to ensure accurate, precise prescribing
Takes advice on the most appropriate medicine in all but the most common situations
Makes sure an accurate record of prescribed medication is transmitted promptly to relevant
others involved in an individuals care
Knows indications for commonly used drugs that require monitoring to avoid adverse effects
Modifies patients prescriptions to ensure the most appropriate medicines are used for any
specific condition
Maximises patient compliance by minimising the number of medicines required that is compatible
2 with optimal patient care
Maximises patient compliance by providing full explanations of the need for the medicines
prescribed
Is aware of the precise indications, dosages, adverse effects and modes of administration of the
drugs used commonly within their specialty
Uses databases and other reference works to ensure knowledge of new therapies and adverse
effects is up to date
Knows how to report adverse effects and take part in this mechanism
Is aware of the regulatory bodies relevant to prescribed medicines both locally and nationally
3/4
Ensures that resources are used in the most effective way for patient benefit

Time Management and Decision Making

To demonstrate increasing ability to prioritise and organise clinical and clerical duties in order to
optimise patient care
To demonstrate improving ability to make appropriate clinical and clerical decisions in order to
optimise the effectiveness of the clinical team resource
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands that effective organisation is key to time management ACAT, CbD 1
Understands that some tasks are more urgent and/or more important ACAT, CbD 1
than others
Understands the need to prioritise work according to urgency and ACAT, CbD 1
importance
Maintains focus on individual patient needs whilst balancing multiple ACAT, CbD 1
competing pressures
Understands that some tasks may have to wait or be delegated to ACAT, CbD 1
others
Understands the roles, competences and capabilities of other ACAT, CbD 1
professionals and support workers
Outlines techniques for improving time management ACAT, CbD 1
Understands the importance of prompt investigation, diagnosis and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
treatment in disease and illness management CEX
Skills
Identifies clinical and clerical tasks requiring attention or predicted to ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
arise CEX
Estimates the time likely to be required for essential tasks and plan ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
accordingly CEX
Groups together tasks when this will be the most effective way of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1

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working CEX
Recognises the most urgent / important tasks and ensures that they ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
managed expediently CEX
Regularly reviews and re-prioritises personal and team work load ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Organises and manages workload effectively and flexibly ACAT, CbD, Mini- 1
CEX
Makes appropriate use of other professionals and support workers ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Behaviours
Ability to work flexibly and deal with tasks in an effective and efficient ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
fashion
Recognises when you or others are falling behind and take steps to ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
rectify the situation
Communicates changes in priority to others ACAT, MSF 1
Remains calm in stressful or high pressure situations and adopts a ACAT, MSF 1
timely, rational approach
Appropriately recognises and handles uncertainty within the ACAT, MSF 1
consultation
Level Descriptor
Recognises the need to identify work and compiles a list of tasks
Works systematically through tasks and attempts to prioritise
Discusses the relative importance of tasks with more senior colleagues
1 Understands importance of completing tasks and checks progress with more senior members of
clinical team (doctors or nurses)
Understands importance of communicating progress with other team members
Able to express when finds workload too much
Organises work appropriately well and is able to prioritise
When unsure, always consults more senior member of team
Able to work with and guide more junior colleagues and to take work from them if they are
2
seeming to be overloaded
Discusses work on a daily basis with more senior member of team
Completes work in a timely fashion
Able to organise own daily work efficiently and effectively and to supervise work of others
Is known to be reliable
Able to manage to balance apparently competing tasks
Recognises the most important tasks and responds appropriately
3
Anticipates when priorities should be changed
Starting to lead and direct the clinical team in effective fashion
Supports others who are falling behind
Requires minimal organisational supervision
Automatically prioritises, reprioritises and manages workload in most effective and efficient fashion
Communicates and delegates rapidly and clearly
4 Automatically responsible for organising the clinical team
Is able to manage to supervise or guide the work of more than one team – e.g. out patient and
ward team

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 Calm leadership in stressful situations

Decision Making and Clinical Reasoning

To develop the ability to formulate a diagnostic and therapeutic plan for a patient according to
the clinical information available
To develop the ability to prioritise the diagnostic and therapeutic plan
To be able to communicate a diagnostic and therapeutic plan appropriately
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Defines the steps of diagnostic reasoning:
 Interprets history and clinical signs ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
 Conceptualises clinical problem in a medical and social ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
context CEX
 Understands the psychological component of disease and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
illness presentation CEX
 Generates hypothesis within context of clinical likelihood ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
 Tests, refines and verifies hypotheses ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
 Develops problem list and action plan ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
 Recognises how to use expert advice, clinical guidelines and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
algorithms CEX
 Recognises and appropriately responds to sources of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
information accessed by patients CEX
Recognises the need to determine the best value and most effective ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2
treatment both for the individual patient and for a patient cohort CEX
Defines the concepts of disease natural history and assessment of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
risk CEX
Recalls methods and associated problems of quantifying risk e.g. ACAT, CbD 1
cohort studies
Outlines the concepts and drawbacks of quantitative assessment of ACAT, CbD 1
risk or benefit e.g. numbers needed to treat
Describes commonly used statistical methodology CbD, mini-CEX 1
Knows how relative and absolute risks are derived and the meaning CbD, mini-CEX 1
of the terms’ predictive value, sensitivity and specificity in relation to
diagnostic tests
Skills
Interprets clinical features, their reliability and relevance to clinical ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
scenarios including recognition of the breadth of presentation of CEX
common disorders
Incorporates an understanding of the psychological and social ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
elements of clinical scenarios into decision making through a robust CEX
process of clinical reasoning
Recognises critical illness and responds with due urgency ACAT, CbD, mini- 1

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 CEX
Generates plausible hypothesis(es) following patient assessment ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Constructs a concise and applicable problem list using available ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
information CEX
Constructs an appropriate management plan in conjunction with the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3,4
patient, carers and other members of the clinical team and CEX
communicates this effectively to the patient, parents and carers where
relevant
Defines the relevance of an estimated risk of a future event to an ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
individual patient CEX
Uses risk calculators appropriately ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Considers the risks and benefits of screening investigations ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Applies quantitative data of risks and benefits of therapeutic ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
intervention to an individual patient CEX
Searches and comprehends medical literature to guide reasoning AA, CbD 1
Behaviours
Recognises the difficulties in predicting occurrence of future events ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Shows willingness to discuss intelligibly with a patient the notion and ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
difficulties of prediction of future events, and benefit/risk balance of CEX
therapeutic intervention
Shows willingness to adapt and adjust approaches according to the ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
beliefs and preferences of the patient and/or carers CEX
Is willing to facilitate patient choice ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX
Shows willingness to search for evidence to support clinical decision ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,4
making CEX
Demonstrates ability to identify one’s own biases and inconsistencies ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,3
in clinical reasoning CEX
Level Descriptor
In a straightforward clinical case:
 Develops a provisional diagnosis and a differential diagnosis on the basis of the clinical
evidence
1  Institutes an appropriate investigative plan
 Institutes an appropriate therapeutic plan
 Seeks appropriate support from others
 Takes account of the patient’s wishes and records them accurately and succinctly
In a difficult clinical case:
 Develops a provisional diagnosis and a differential diagnosis on the basis of the clinical
evidence
2  Institutes an appropriate investigative plan
 Institutes an appropriate therapeutic plan
 Seeks appropriate support from others
 Takes account of the patient’s wishes and records them accurately and succinctly

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 In a complex, non-emergency case:
 Develops a provisional diagnosis and a differential diagnosis on the basis of the clinical
evidence
3/4  Institutes an appropriate investigative plan
 Institutes an appropriate therapeutic plan
 Seeks appropriate support from others
 Takes account of the patient’s wishes and records them accurately and succinctly

The Patient as Central Focus of Care

To develop the ability to prioritise the patient’s agenda encompassing their beliefs, concerns
expectations and needs
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines health needs of particular populations e.g. ethnic minorities ACAT, CbD 1
and recognises the impact of health beliefs, culture and ethnicity in
presentations of physical and psychological conditions
Ensure that all decisions and actions are in the best interests of the CbD 1
patient and the public good
Skills
Gives adequate time for patients and carers to express their beliefs ACAT, mini-CEX 1, 3, 4
ideas, concerns and expectations
Responds to questions honestly and seek advice if unable to answer ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX
Encourages the health care team to respect the philosophy of patient ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
focussed care CEX, MSF
Develops a self-management plan with the patient ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
CEX
Supports patients, parents and carers where relevant to comply with ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
management plans CEX, PS
Encourages patients to voice their preferences and personal choices ACAT, mini-CEX, PS 3
about their care
Respond to people in an ethical, honest and non-judgmental manner CbD 1,3,4
Behaviours
Supports patient self-management ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX, PS
Respond to questions honestly and seek advice if unable to answer ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX
Recognises the duty of the medical professional to act as patient ACAT, CbD, mini- 3, 4
advocate CEX, MSF, PS
Level Descriptor
Responds honestly and promptly to patient questions but knows when to refer for senior help
Recognises the need for disparate approaches to individual patients
Is always respectful to patients
1
Introduces self clearly to patients and indicates own place in team
Always checks that patient is comfortable and willing to be seen; asks about and explains all
elements of examination before undertaking even taking a pulse

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 Always warns patient of any procedure and is aware of the notion of implicit consent
Never undertakes consent for a procedure that he/she is not competent to do
Always seeks senior help when does not know answer to patient’s queries
Always asks patient if there is anything else they need to know or ask
Recognises more complex situations of communication, accommodates disparate needs and
develops strategies to cope
2 Is sensitive to patient’s own cultural concerns and norms
Is able to explain diagnoses and medical procedures in ways that enable patient to understand
and make decisions about their own health care
Deals rapidly with more complex situations, promotes patient’s self care and ensures all
opportunities are outlined
3/4 Is able to discuss complex questions and uncertainties with patients and to enable them to make
decisions about difficult aspects of their health – e.g. to opt for no treatment or to make end of life
decisions

Prioritisation of Patient Safety in Clinical Practice

To understand that patient safety depends on the effective and efficient organisation of care, and
health care staff working well together
To understand that patient safety depends on safe systems not just individual competency and
safe practice
To never compromise patient safety
To understand the risks of treatments and to discuss these honestly and openly with patients so
that patients are able to make decisions about risks and treatment options
To ensure that all staff are aware of risks and work together to minimise risk
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the features of a safe working environment ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Outlines the hazards of medical equipment in common use ACAT, CbD 1
Recalls side effects and contraindications of medications prescribed ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Recalls principles of risk assessment and management CbD 1
Recalls the components of safe working practice in the personal, ACAT, CbD 1
clinical and organisational settings
Outlines local procedures and protocols for optimal practice e.g. GI ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
bleed protocol, safe prescribing CEX
Understands the investigation of significant events, serious untoward ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
incidents and near misses CEX
Skills
Recognises limits of own professional competence and only practises ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
within these CEX
Recognises when a patient is not responding to treatment and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
reassesses the situation; encourages others to do the same CEX
Ensures the correct and safe use of medical equipment, ensuring ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
faulty equipment is reported appropriately CEX
Improves patients’ and colleagues’ understanding of the side effects ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
and contraindications of therapeutic intervention CEX

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Sensitively counsels a colleague following a significant untoward ACAT, CbD 3
event, or near incident, to encourage improvement in practice of
individual and unit
Recognises and responds to the manifestations of a patient’s ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
deterioration or lack of improvement (symptoms, signs, observations, CEX, MSF
and laboratory results) and supports other members of the team to
act similarly
Behaviours
Continues to maintain a high level of safety awareness and ACAT, CbD, mini- 2
consciousness at all times CEX
Encourages feedback from all members of the team on safety issues ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX, MSF
Reports serious untoward incidents and near misses and co-operates ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
with the investigation of the same CEX, MSF
Shows willingness to take action when concerns are raised about ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
performance of members of the healthcare team, and acts CEX, MSF
appropriately when these concerns are voiced to you by others
Continues to be aware of one’s own limitations, and operates within ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
them competently CEX
Level Descriptor
Respects and follows ward protocols and guidelines
Takes direction from the nursing staff as well as medical team on matters related to patient safety
Discusses risks of treatments with patients and is able to help patients make decisions about their
treatment
1 Does not hurry patients into decisions
Always ensures the safe use of equipment
Follows guidelines unless there is a clear reason for doing otherwise
Acts promptly when a patient’s condition deteriorates
Always escalates concerns promptly
Demonstrates ability to lead team discussion on risk assessment and risk management and to work
with the team to make organisational changes that will reduce risk and improve safety
Understands the relationship between good team working and patient safety
Is able to work with and when appropriate lead the whole clinical team
2
Promotes patient’s safety to more junior colleagues
Recognises untoward or significant events and always reports these. Leads discussion of causes of
clinical incidents with staff and enables them to reflect on the causes. Able to undertake a root
cause analysis
Able to assess the risks across the system of care and to work with colleagues from different
department or sectors to ensure safety across the health care system
3
Involves the whole clinical team in discussions about patient safety
Shows support for junior colleagues who are involved in untoward events
Is fastidious about following safety protocols and ensures that junior colleagues to do the same. Is
able to explain the rationale for protocols
4
Demonstrates ability to lead an investigation of a serious untoward incident or near miss and
synthesise an analysis of the issues and plan for resolution or adaptation

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Team Working and Patient Safety
To develop the ability to work well in a variety of different teams and team settings – for example
the ward team and the infection control team – and to contribute to discussion on the team’s role
in patient safety
To develop the leadership skills necessary to lead teams so that they are more effective and
better able to deliver safer care
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the components of effective collaboration and team working ACAT, CbD 1
Describes the roles and responsibilities of members of the healthcare ACAT, CbD 1
team
Outlines factors adversely affecting a doctor’s and team performance CbD 1
and methods to rectify these
Skills
Practises with attention to the important steps of providing good ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
continuity of care CEX
Accurate attributable note-keeping, including appropriate use of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
electronic clinical record systems CEX
Prepares patient lists with clarification of problems and ongoing care ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
plan CEX, MSF
Detailed hand over between shifts and areas of care ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
CEX , MSF
Demonstrates leadership and management in the following areas: ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2, 3
CEX
 Education and training of junior colleagues and other
members of the healthcare team
 Deteriorating performance of colleagues (e.g. stress, fatigue)
 High quality care
 Effective handover of care between shifts and teams
Leads and participates in interdisciplinary team meetings ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
CEX
Provides appropriate supervision to less experienced colleagues ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
Behaviours
Encourages an open environment to foster and explore concerns and ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
issues about the functioning and safety of team working
Recognises limits of own professional competence and only practises ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
within these
Recognises and respects the request for a second opinion ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
Recognises the importance of induction for new members of a team ACAT, CbD, MSF 3
Recognises the importance of prompt and accurate information ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
sharing with Primary Care team following hospital discharge CEX , MSF
Level Descriptor
Works well within the multidisciplinary team and recognises when assistance is required from the
1 relevant team member
Demonstrates awareness of own contribution to patient safety within a team and is able to outline

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 the roles of other team members
Keeps records up-to-date and legible and relevant to the safe progress of the patient
Hands over care in a precise, timely and effective manner
Demonstrates ability to discuss problems within a team to senior colleagues. Provides an
analysis and plan for change
Demonstrates ability to work with the virtual team to develop the ability to work well in a variety of
2 different teams – for example the ward team and the infection control team – and to contribute to
discussion on the team’s role in patient safety
Develops the leadership skills necessary to lead teams so that they are more effective and able
to deliver better safer care
Leads multidisciplinary team meetings but promotes contribution from all team members
Recognises need for optimal team dynamics and promotes conflict resolution
3
Demonstrates ability to convey to patients after a handover of care that, although there is a
different team, the care is continuous
Leads multi-disciplinary team meetings allowing all voices to be heard and considered; fosters an
atmosphere of collaboration
Recognises situations in which others are better equipped to lead or where delegation is
4 appropriate
Demonstrates ability to work with the virtual team
Ensures that team functioning is maintained at all times
Promotes rapid conflict resolution

Principles of Quality and Safety Improvement

To recognise the desirability of monitoring performance, learning from mistakes and adopting no
blame culture in order to ensure high standards of care and optimise patient safety
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the elements of clinical governance CbD, MSF 1
Recognises that governance safeguards high standards of care and CbD, MSF 1, 2
facilitates the development of improved clinical services
Defines local and national significant event reporting systems relevant ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
to specialty CEX
Recognises importance of evidence-based practice in relation to CbD 1
clinical effectiveness
Outlines local health and safety protocols (fire, manual handling etc) CbD 1
Understands risk associated with the trainee’s specialty work CbD 1
including biohazards and mechanisms to reduce risk
Outlines the use of patient early warning systems to detect clinical ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
deterioration where relevant to the trainee’s clinical specialty CEX
Keeps abreast of national patient safety initiatives including National ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
Patient Safety Agency , NCEPOD reports, NICE guidelines etc CEX
Skills
Adopts strategies to reduce risk e.g. surgical pause ACAT, CbD 1, 2
Contributes to quality improvement processes e.g. AA, CbD 2
 Audit of personal and departmental/directorate/practice
performance

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  Errors / discrepancy meetings
 Critical incident and near miss reporting
 Unit morbidity and mortality meetings
 Local and national databases
Maintains a portfolio of information and evidence, drawn from own CbD 2
medical practice
Reflects regularly on own standards of medical practice in AA 1,2,3,4
accordance with GMC guidance on licensing and revalidation
Behaviours
Shows willingness to participate in safety improvement strategies CbD, MSF 3
such as critical incident reporting
Develops reflection in order to achieve insight into own professional CbD, MSF 3
practice
Demonstrates personal commitment to improve own performance in CbD, MSF 3
the light of feedback and assessment
Engages with an open no blame culture CbD, MSF 3
Responds positively to outcomes of audit and quality improvement CbD, MSF 1,3
Co-operates with changes necessary to improve service quality and CbD, MSF 1,2
safety
Level Descriptor
Understands that clinical governance is the over-arching framework that unites a range of quality
improvement activities. This safeguards high standards of care and facilitates the development of
1 improved clinical services
Maintains personal portfolio
Able to define key elements of clinical governance i.e. understands the links between
2 organisational function and processes and the care of individuals
Engages in audit and understands the link between audit and quality and safety improvement
Demonstrates personal and service performance
3 Designs audit protocols and completes audit cycle through an understanding the relevant
changes needed to improve care and is able to support the implementation of change
Leads in review of patient safety issues
Implements change to improve service
4
Understands change management
Engages and guides others to embrace high quality clinical governance

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Infection Control
To develop the ability to manage and control infection in patients, including controlling the risk
of cross-infection, appropriately managing infection in individual patients, and working
appropriately within the wider community to manage the risk posed by communicable diseases
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the principles of infection control as defined by the GMC ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Understands the principles of preventing infection in high risk groups ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
(e.g. managing antibiotic use to reduce Clostridium difficile infection,) CEX
including understanding the local antibiotic prescribing policy
Understands the role of Notification of diseases within the UK and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
identifies the principle notifiable diseases for UK and international CEX
purposes
Understands the role of the Health Protection Agency and CbD, ACAT 1
Consultants in Health Protection (previously Consultants in
Communicable Disease Control – CCDC)
Understands the role of the local authority in relation to infection ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
control CEX
Skills
Recognises the potential for infection within patients being cared for ACAT, CbD 1, 2
Counsels patient on matters of infection risk, transmission and control ACAT, CbD, mini- 2, 3
CEX, PS
Actively engages in local infection control procedures ACAT, CbD 1
Actively engages in local infection control monitoring and reporting ACAT, CbD 1, 2
processes
Prescribes antibiotics according to local antibiotic guidelines and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
works with microbiological services where this is not possible CEX
Recognises potential for cross-infection in clinical settings ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
CEX
Practices aseptic technique whenever relevant DOPS 1
Behaviours
Encourages all staff, patients and relatives to observe infection ACAT, CbD, MSF 1, 3
control principles
Recognises the risk of personal ill-health as a risk to patients and ACAT, CbD, MSF 1, 3
colleagues in addition to its effect on performance
Level Descriptor
Always follows local infection control protocols, including washing hands before and after seeing
all patients
Is able to explain infection control protocols to students and to patients and their relatives
Always defers to the nursing team about matters of ward management
1 Aware of infections of concern, including MRSA and C difficile
Aware of the risks of nosocomial infections
Understands the links between antibiotic prescription and the development of nosocomial
infections
Always discusses antibiotic use with a more senior colleague

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 Demonstrates ability to perform simple clinical procedures utilising effective aseptic technique
Manages simple common infections in patients using first-line treatments
Communicates effectively to the patient the need for treatment and any prevention messages to
2
prevent re-infection or spread
Liaises with diagnostic departments in relation to appropriate investigations and tests
Knowledge of which diseases should be notified and undertake notification promptly
Demonstrates an ability to perform more complex clinical procedures whilst maintaining aseptic
technique throughout
Identifies potential for infection amongst high risk patients, obtaining appropriate investigations
and considering the use of second line therapies
Communicates effectively to patients and their relatives with regard to the infection, the need for
3
treatment and any associated risks of therapy
Works effectively with diagnostic departments in relation to identifying appropriate investigations
and monitoring therapy
Works in collaboration with external agencies in relation to reporting common notifiable diseases,
and collaborates over any appropriate investigation or management
Demonstrates an ability to perform most complex clinical procedures whilst maintaining full
aseptic precautions, including those procedures which require multiple staff in order to perform
the procedure satisfactorily
Identifies the possibility of unusual and uncommon infections and the potential for atypical
presentation of more frequent infections. Manages these cases effectively with potential use of
4 tertiary treatments being undertaken in collaboration with infection control specialists
Works in collaboration with diagnostic departments to investigate and manage the most complex
types of infection, including those potentially requiring isolation facilities
Works in collaboration with external agencies to manage the potential for infection control within
the wider community, including communicating effectively with the general public and liaising with
regional and national bodies where appropriate

Managing Long Term Conditions and Promoting Patient Self-Care

To work with patients and use their expertise to manage their condition collaboratively and in
partnership, with mutual benefit
To pursue a holistic and long term approach to the planning and implementation of
patient care, in particular to identify and facilitate the patient’s role in their own care
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the natural history of diseases and illnesses that run a ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
chronic course CEX
Defines the role of rehabilitation services and the multi-disciplinary ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
team to facilitate long-term care CEX
Outlines the concept of quality of life and how this can be measured, CbD 1
whilst understanding the limitations of such measures for individual
patients
Work with an appropriate knowledge of guidance documents on CbD 1
supporting people with long term conditions to self care
Outlines the concept of patient self-care and the role of the expert CbD, mini-CEX 1
patient
Knows, understands and is able to compare and contrast the medical CbD 1
and social models of disability
Knows about and practises within the key provisions of disability CbD 1,4

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discrimination and other contemporary legislation
Knows about the key provisions of disability discrimination legislation CbD 1
Understands the relationship between local health, educational and CbD 1
social service provision including the voluntary sector
Be familiar with the range of agencies that can provide care and CbD 1,3
support in and out of hospital and how they can be accessed
Skills
Develops and agrees on a management plan with the patient (and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
carers), ensuring comprehension to maximise self-care within care CEX
pathways where relevant
Assess the patient’s ability to access various services in the health CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
and social system and offer appropriate assistance
Advocate and facilitate appropriate self care CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
Develops and sustains supportive relationships with patients with CbD, mini-CEX 1, 4
whom care will be prolonged and potentially life long
Provides relevant evidence-based information and, where ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
appropriate, effective patient education, with support of the multi- CEX
disciplinary team
Promotes and encourages involvement of patients in appropriate CbD, PS 1, 3
support networks, both to receive support and to give support to
others
Encourages and supports patients in accessing appropriate CbD, PS 1, 3
information
Behaviours
Shows willingness and support for patient in his/her own advocacy, ACAT, CbD, mini- 3, 4
within the constraints of available resources and taking into account CEX
the best interests of the wider community
Recognises the potential impact of long term conditions on the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
patient, family and friends CEX
Provides relevant tools and devices when possible ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Ensures equipment and devices relevant to the patient’s care are CbD 1,2,3
discussed
Puts patients in touch with the relevant agency including the voluntary ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
sector from where they can procure the items as appropriate CEX
Provides the relevant tools and devices when possible ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
CEX
Shows willingness to facilitate access to the appropriate training and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
skills in order to develop the patient's confidence and competence to CEX, PS
self care, and adapt appropriately as those members change over
time
Shows willingness to maintain a close working relationship with other ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
members of the multi-disciplinary team, primary and community care CEX, MSF
Shows a willingness to engage with expert patients and CbD, PS 1,3,4
representatives of charities or networks that focus on diseases and
recognises their role in supporting patients and their families/carers
Recognises and respects the role of family, friends and carers in the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
management of the patient with a long term condition CEX, PS

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Puts patients in touch with the relevant agency, including the CbD, PS 3,4
voluntary sector from where they can procure the items as
appropriate
Level Descriptor
Describes relevant long term conditions
Understands that “quality of life” is an important goal of care and that this may have different
meanings for each patient
1
Is aware of the need for promotion of patient self care and independence
Helps the patient to develop an active understanding of their condition and how they can be
involved in self management
Demonstrates awareness of management of relevant long term conditions
Is aware of the tools and devices that can be used in long term conditions
2 Is aware of external agencies that can improve patient care and/or provide support
Provides the patient with evidence based information and assists the patient in understanding
this material; utilises the team to promote excellent patient care
Develops management plans in partnership with the patient that are pertinent to the patient’s
long term condition
3
Can use relevant tools and devices in improving patient care
Engages with relevant external agencies to promote improving patient care
Provides leadership within the multidisciplinary team that is responsible for management of
4 patients with long term conditions
Helps the patient networks develop and strengthen

Relationships with Patients and Communication within a Consultation

To recognise the need, and develop the abilities, to communicate effectively and sensitively with
patients, relatives and carers
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
How to structure a consultation appropriately ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX, PS
The importance of the patient's background, culture, education and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
preconceptions (beliefs, ideas, concerns, expectations) to the process CEX, PS
Skills
Establishes a rapport with the patient and any relevant others (e.g. ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
carers) CEX, PS
Utilises open and closed questioning appropriately CbD, mini-CEX, PS 1,3
Listens actively and questions sensitively to guide the patient and to ACAT, mini-CEX, PS 1, 3
clarify information
Identifies and manages communication barriers, tailoring language to ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
the individual patient and others, and using interpreters when CEX, PS
indicated
Delivers information compassionately, being alert to and managing ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
their and your emotional response (anxiety, antipathy etc) CEX
Uses, and refers patients to, appropriate written and other evidence ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
based information sources CEX
Checks the patient's/carer's understanding, ensuring that all their ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3

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concerns/questions have been covered CEX
Indicates when the consultation is nearing its end and concludes with ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
a summary and appropriate action plan; asks the patient to CEX
summarise back to check his/her understanding
Makes accurate contemporaneous records of the discussion ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
CEX
Manages follow-up effectively and safely, utilising a variety if methods ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
(e.g. phone call, email, letter) CEX
Ensures appropriate referral and communications with other CbD, PS 1,3
healthcare professional resulting from the consultation are made
accurately and in a timely manner
Behaviours
Approaches the situation with courtesy, empathy, compassion and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
professionalism, especially by appropriate body language and CEX, MSF, PS
endeavouring to ensure an appropriate physical environment - act as
an equal not a superior
Ensures appropriate personal language and behaviour CbD, PS 1,3
Ensures that the approach is inclusive and patient-centred, and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
respects the diversity of values in patients, carers and colleagues CEX, MSF, PS
Is willing to provide patients with a second opinion ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
CEX, MSF, PS
Uses different methods of ethical reasoning to come to a balanced ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
decision where complex and conflicting issues are involved CEX, MSF
Is confident and positive in own values ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
CEX
Level Descriptor
Conducts simple consultation with due empathy and sensitivity and writes accurate records
1
thereof
Conducts interviews on complex concepts satisfactorily, confirming that accurate two-way
2
communication has occurred
Handles communication difficulties appropriately, involving others as necessary; establishes
3
excellent rapport
Shows mastery of patient communication in all situations, anticipating and managing any
4
difficulties which may occur

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Breaking Bad News
To recognise the fundamental importance of breaking bad news
To develop strategies for skilled delivery of bad news according to the needs of individual
patients and their relatives / carers
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
How bad news is delivered irretrievably affects the subsequent ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
relationship with the patient CEX, MSF, PS
Every patient may desire different levels of explanation and have ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
different responses to bad news CEX, PS
That bad news is confidential but the patient may wish to be ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
accompanied CEX, PS
Once the news is given, patients are unlikely to take anything CbD, mini-CEX, PS 1,3
subsequent in, so an early further appointment should be made
Breaking bad news can be extremely stressful for the doctor or ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
professional involved CEX
The interview at which bad news is given may be an educational ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
opportunity CEX
It is important to: ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
 Prepare for breaking bad news CEX
 Set aside sufficient uninterrupted time
 Choose an appropriate private environment and ensure that
there will be no unplanned disturbances
 Have sufficient information regarding prognosis and treatment
 Ensure the individual has appropriate support if desired
 Structure the interview
 Be honest, factual, realistic and empathic
 Be aware of relevant guidance documents
‘Bad news’ may be expected or unexpected and it cannot always be ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
predicted CEX
Sensitive communication of bad news is an essential part of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
professional practice CEX
‘Bad news’ has different connotations depending on the context, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
individual, social and cultural circumstances CEX, PS
That a post mortem examination may be required and understand ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
what this involves CEX, PS
The local organ retrieval process ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Skills
Demonstrates to others good practice in breaking bad news CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
Involves patients and carers in decisions regarding their future CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3, 4
management
Recognises the impact of the bad news on the patient, carer, CbD, MSF 1,3
supporters, staff members and self
Encourages questioning and ensures comprehension CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3

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Responds to verbal and visual cues from patients and relatives CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
Acts with empathy, honesty and sensitivity, avoiding undue optimism CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
or pessimism
Structures the interview, for example: CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
 Sets the scene
 Establishes understanding
 Discusses diagnosis(es), implications, treatment, prognosis
and subsequent care
Behaviours
Takes leadership in breaking bad news CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
Respects the different ways people react to bad news CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
Ensures appropriate recognition and management of the impact of CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
breaking bad news on the doctor
Level Descriptor
Recognises when bad news must be imparted
1 Recognises the need to develop specific skills
Requires guidance to deal with most cases
Able to break bad news in planned settings with preparatory discussion with seniors
Prepares well for interview
2
Prepares patient to receive bad news
Responsive to patient reactions
Able to break bad news in unexpected and planned settings
Structures the interview clearly
3
Establishes what patient wants to know and ensures understanding
Able to conclude interview
Skilfully delivers bad news in any circumstance including adverse events
4 Arranges follow up as appropriate
Able to teach others how to break bad news

Complaints and Medical Error

To recognise the causes of error and to learn from them; to realise the importance of honesty
and effective apology and to take a leadership role in the handling of complaints
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Basic consultation techniques and skills described for Foundation CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
programme, including:
 Describes the local complaints procedure
 Recognises factors likely to lead to complaints (poor
communication, dishonesty, clinical errors, adverse clinical
outcomes etc)
 Adopts behaviour likely to prevent causes for complaints
 Deals appropriately with concerned or dissatisfied patients or
relatives
 Recognises when something has gone wrong and identifies

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 appropriate staff to communicate this to
 Acts with honesty and sensitivity in a non-confrontational
manner
Outlines the principles of an effective apology CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
Identifies sources of help and support for patients and yourself when CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
a complaint is made about yourself or a colleague
Skills
Contributes to processes whereby complaints are reviewed and CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
learned from
Explains comprehensibly to the patient the events leading up to a CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
medical error or serious untoward incident, and sources of support for
patients and their relatives
Delivers an appropriate apology and explanation (either of error or for CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3, 4
process of investigation of potential error and reporting of the same)
Distinguishes between system and individual errors (personal and CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
organisational)
Shows an ability to learn from previous error CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
Behaviours
Takes leadership over complaint issues CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
Recognises the impact of complaints and medical error on staff, CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 3
patients, and the National Health Service
Contributes to a fair and transparent culture around complaints and CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
errors
Recognises the rights of patients, family members and carers to make CbD, DOPS, MSF 1, 4
a complaint
Recognises the impact of a complaint upon self and seeks CbD, DOPS, MSF 1,3,4
appropriate help and support
Level Descriptor
If an error is made, immediately rectifies it and/or reports it
Apologises to patient for any failure as soon as it is recognised, however small
Understands and describes the local complaints procedure
1 Recognises need for honesty in management of complaints
Responds promptly to concerns that have been raised
Understands the importance of an effective apology
Learns from errors
Manages conflict without confrontation
2
Recognises and responds to the difference between system failure and individual error
3 Recognises and manages the effects of any complaint within members of the team
Provides timely, accurate written responses to complaints when required
4
Provides leadership in the management of complaints

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Communication with Colleagues and Cooperation
To recognise and accept the responsibilities and role of the doctor in relation to other healthcare
professionals
To communicate succinctly and effectively with other professionals as appropriate
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the section in ‘Good Medical Practice’ on Working with CbD, MSF 1
Colleagues, in particular:
 The roles played by all members of a multi-disciplinary team CbD, MSF 1
 The features of good team dynamics CbD, MSF 1
 The principles of effective inter-professional collaboration to CbD, MSF 1
optimise patient, or population, care
Understands the principles of confidentiality that provide boundaries CbD, MSF 1
to communication
Skills
Communicates accurately, clearly, promptly and comprehensively ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
with relevant colleagues by means appropriate to the urgency of a CEX
situation (telephone, email, letter etc), especially where responsibility
for a patient's care is transferred
Utilises the expertise of the whole multi-disciplinary team as ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
appropriate, ensuring when delegating responsibility that appropriate CEX, MSF
supervision is maintained
Participates in and co-ordinates an effective hospital-at-night or ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
hospital out-of-hours team where relevant; participates effectively in CEX, MSF
General Practice out-of-hours
Communicates effectively with administrative bodies and support CbD, mini-CEX, MSF 1, 3
organisations
Employs behavioural management skills with colleagues to prevent ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
and resolve conflict and enhance collaboration CEX, MSF
Behaviours
Is aware of the importance of and takes part in multi-disciplinary ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
teamwork, including adoption of a leadership role when appropriate CEX, MSF
but also recognising where others are better equipped to lead
Fosters a supportive and respectful environment where there is open ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
and transparent communication between all team members CEX, MSF
Ensures appropriate confidentiality is maintained during ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
communication with any member of the team CEX, MSF
Recognises the need for a healthy work/life balance for the whole CbD, mini-CEX, MSF 1
team, including yourself, but take any leave yourself only after giving
appropriate notice to ensure that cover is in place
Is prepared to accept additional duties in situations of unavoidable CbD, MSF 1
and unpredictable absence of colleagues, ensuring that the best
interests of the patient are paramount
Level Descriptor
Accepts own role in the healthcare team and communicates appropriately with all relevant
1 members thereof
Knows who the other members of the team are and ensures effective communication

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 Fully recognises the role of, and communicates appropriately with, all relevant potential team
2 members (individual and corporate)
Supports other members of the team; ensures that all are aware of their roles
3 Able to predict and manage conflict between members of the healthcare team
Able to take a leadership role as appropriate, fully respecting the skills, responsibilities and
4
viewpoints of all team members

Health Promotion and Public Health

To develop the ability to work with individuals and communities to reduce levels of ill health,
remove inequalities in healthcare provision and improve the general health of a community
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the factors which influence the incidence and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
prevalence of common conditions CEX
Understands the factors which influence health and illness – ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
psychological, biological, social, cultural and economic especially CEX
poverty and unemployment
Understands the influence of lifestyle on health and the factors that ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
influence an individual to change their lifestyle CEX
Understands the influence of culture and beliefs on patient’s ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
perceptions of health CEX
Understands the purpose of screening programmes and knows in CbD, mini-CEX 1
outline the common programmes available within the UK
Understands the positive and negative effects of screening on the CbD, mini-CEX 1
individual
Understands the possible positive and negative implications of health CbD, mini-CEX 1
promotion activities (e.g. immunisation)
Understands the relationship between the health of an individual and CbD, mini-CEX 1
that of a community and vice versa
Knows the key local concerns about health of communities such as ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
smoking and obesity and the potential determinants CEX
Understands the role of other agencies and factors, including the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
impact of globalisation in increasing disease and in protecting and CEX
promoting health
Demonstrates knowledge of the determinants of health worldwide and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
strategies to influence policy relating to health issues, including the CEX
impact of the developed world strategies on the third world
Outlines the major causes of global morbidity and mortality and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
effective, affordable interventions to reduce these CEX
Recalls the effect of addictive and self harming behaviours, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
especially substance misuse and gambling, on personal and CEX
community health and poverty
Skills
Identifies opportunities to prevent ill health and disease in patients ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
CEX, PS
Identifies opportunities to promote changes in lifestyle and other ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
actions which will positively improve health and/or disease outcomes. CEX

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Identifies the interaction between mental, physical and social ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
wellbeing in relation to health CEX
Counsels patients appropriately on the benefits and risks of screening ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
and health promotion activities CEX, PS
Identifies patient’s ideas, concerns and health beliefs regarding CbD, mini-CEX, 1, 3
screening and health promotions programmes and is capable of
appropriately responding to these
Works collaboratively with other agencies to improve the health of CbD, mini-CEX 1
communities
Recognises and is able to balance autonomy with social justice CbD, mini-CEX 1, 3
Behaviours
Engages in effective team-working around the improvement of health ACAT, CbD, 1, 3
MSF
Encourages, where appropriate, screening to facilitate early CbD 1
intervention
Seeks out and utilises opportunities for health promotion and disease CbD 1
prevention
Level Descriptor
Discusses with patients others factors which could influence their personal health
1 Maintains own health and is aware of own responsibility as a doctor for promoting healthy
approach to life
2 Supports an individual in a simple health promotion activity (e.g. smoking cessation)
Knowledge of local public health and communicable disease networks
Communicates to an individual and their relatives information about the factors which influence
their personal health
3
Supports small groups in a simple health promotion activity (e.g. smoking cessation)
Provides information to an individual about a screening programme and offers information about
its risks and benefits
Discusses with small groups the factors that have an influence on their health and describes
steps they can undertake to address these
Provides information to an individual about a screening programme, offering specific guidance in
4 relation to their personal health and circumstances concerning the factors that would affect the
risks and benefits of screening to them as an individual
Engages with local or regional initiatives to improve individual health and reduce inequalities in
health between communities

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Principles of Medical Ethics and Confidentiality
To know, understand and apply appropriately the principles, guidance and laws regarding
medical ethics and confidentiality
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of medical ethics ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Outlines and follows the guidance given by the GMC on ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
confidentiality CEX
Defines the provisions of the Data Protection Act and Freedom of ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
Information Act CEX
Defines the principles of Information Governance CbD, mini-CEX 1
Defines the role of the Caldicott Guardian and Information ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
Governance lead within an institution, and outlines the process of CEX
attaining Caldicott approval for audit or research
Outlines situations where patient consent, while desirable, is not ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
required for disclosure e.g. serious communicable diseases, public CEX
interest
Outlines the procedures for seeking a patient’s consent for disclosure ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
of identifiable information CEX
Recalls the obligations for confidentiality following a patient’s death ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
CEX
Recognises the problems posed by disclosure in the public interest, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
without patient’s consent CEX
Recognises the factors influencing ethical decision making, including ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
religion, personal and moral beliefs, cultural practices CEX
Do not resuscitate – defines the standards of practice defined by the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
GMC when deciding to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging treatment CEX
Recognises the role and legal standing of advance directives ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Outlines the principles of the Mental Capacity Act ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Skills
Uses and shares information with the highest regard for ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2, 3
confidentiality, and encourages such behaviour in other members of CEX, MSF
the team
Uses and promotes strategies to ensure confidentiality is maintained CbD 1
e.g. anonymisation
Counsels patients on the need for information distribution within ACAT, CbD, MSF 1, 3
members of the immediate healthcare team
Counsels patients, family, carers and advocates tactfully and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
effectively when making decisions about resuscitation status, and CEX, PS
withholding or withdrawing treatment
Behaviours
Encourages informed ethical reflection in others ACAT, CbD, MSF 1
Shows willingness to seek advice of peers, legal bodies, and the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1

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GMC in the event of ethical dilemmas over disclosure and CEX, MSF
confidentiality
Respects patient’s requests for information not to be shared, unless ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 4
this puts the patient, or others, at risk of harm CEX, PS
Shows willingness to share information regarding care with patients, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
unless they have expressed a wish not to receive such information CEX
Shows willingness to seek the opinion of others when making ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
decisions about resuscitation status, and withholding or withdrawing CEX, MSF
treatment
Level Descriptor
Respects patient’s confidentiality and their autonomy
Understands, in respect of information about patients, the need for highest regard for
confidentiality adhering to the Data Protection Act
Keeps in mind when writing or storing data the importance of the Freedom of Information Act
Knowledge of the guidance given by the GMC in respect of these two acts
1 Understands that the information in patient’s notes is theirs
Only shares information outside the clinical team and the patient after discussion with senior
colleagues
Familiarity with the principles of the Mental Capacity Act; if in doubt about a patient’s competence
and ability to consent even to the most simple of acts (e.g. history taking or examination,) to
discuss with a senior colleague
Participates in decisions about resuscitation status and withholding or withdrawing treatment
Counsels patient on the need for information distribution within members of the immediate
2 healthcare team and seeks patient’s consent for disclosure of identifiable information
Discusses with patient with whom they would like information about their health to be shared
Defines the role of the Caldicott Guardian within an institution, and outlines the process of
attaining Caldicott approval for audit or research
Understands the importance of considering the need for ethical approval when patient
3 information is to be used for anything other than the individual’s care
Understands the difference between confidentiality and anonymity
Knows the process for gaining ethical approval for research
Able to assume a full role in making and implementing decisions about resuscitation status and
withholding or withdrawing treatment
4
Able to support the decision making on behalf of those who are not competent to make
decisions about their own care

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Valid Consent
To understand the necessity of obtaining valid consent from the patient and how to obtain it
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the guidance given by the GMC on consent, in particular: CbD, DOPS, MSF 1
 Understands that consent is a process that may culminate in,
but is not limited to, the completion of a consent form
 Understands the particular importance of considering the
patient's level of understanding and mental state (and also
that of the parents, relatives or carers when appropriate) and
how this may impair their capacity for informed consent
Skills
Presents all information to patients (and carers) in a format they ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
understand, checking understanding and allowing time for reflection CEX, PS
on the decision to give consent
Understand the social and cultural issues that might affect consent CbD, PS 1,3,4
Provides a balanced view of all care options ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
CEX, PS
Behaviours
Respects a patient’s rights of autonomy, even in situations where ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
their decision might put them at risk of harm CEX, PS
Does not exceed the scope of authority given by a competent patient ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX, PS
Does not withhold information relevant to proposed care or treatment ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
in a competent patient CEX
Does not seek to obtain consent for procedures which they are not ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
competent to perform, in accordance with GMC/regulatory CEX
Shows willingness to seek advance directives CbD, PS 1,3,4
Shows willingness to obtain a second opinion, senior opinion and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
legal advice in difficult situations of consent or capacity CEX, MSF
Informs a patient and seeks alternative care where personal, moral or ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3, 4
religious belief prevents a usual professional action CEX, PS
Level descriptor
Understands that consent should be sought ideally by the person undertaking a procedure and if
not by someone competent to undertake the procedure
Understands consent as a process
1 Ensures always to check for consent for the most simplest and non-invasive processes – e.g.
history taking; understands the concept of “implicit consent”
Obtains consent for straightforward treatments that he/she is competent to undertake with
appropriate regard for patient's autonomy
Able to explain complex treatments meaningfully in layman's terms and thereby to obtain
appropriate consent
2
Responds appropriately when a patient declines consent even when the procedure would, on
balance of probability, benefit the patient
3 Obtains consent in ‘grey-area’ situations where the best option for the patient is not clear
4 Obtains consent in all situations, even when there are problems of communication and capacity

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Legal Framework for Practice
To understand the legal framework within which healthcare is provided in the UK and/or
devolved administrations in order to ensure that personal clinical practice is always provided in
line with this legal framework
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
All decisions and actions must be in the best interests of the patient ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Understands the legislative framework within which healthcare is ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
provided in the UK and/or devolved administrations, in particular CEX
death certification and the role of the Coroner/Procurator Fiscal; child
protection legislation; mental health legislation (including powers to
detain a patient and giving emergency treatment against a patient’s
will under common law); advanced directives and living Wills;
withdrawing and withholding treatment; decisions regarding
resuscitation of patients; surrogate decision making; organ donation
and retention; communicable disease notification; medical risk and
driving; Data Protection and Freedom of Information Acts; provision of
continuing care and community nursing care by a local authorities
Understands the differences between health related legislation in the CbD 1
four countries of the UK
Understands sources of medical legal information ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Understands disciplinary processes in relation to medical malpractice ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX, MSF
Understands the role of the medical practitioner in relation to personal ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
health and substance misuse, including understanding the procedure CEX, MSF
to be followed when such abuse is suspected
Skills
Ability to cooperate with other agencies with regard to legal ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
requirements, including reporting to the Coroner’s/Procurator Officer, CEX
the Police or the proper officer of the local authority in relevant
circumstances
Ability to prepare appropriate medical legal statements for submission CbD, MSF 1
to the Coroner’s Court, Procurator Fiscal, Fatal Accident Inquiry and
other legal proceedings
Is prepared to present such material in Court CbD, mini-CEX 1
Incorporates legal principles into day-to-day practice ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Practices and promotes accurate documentation within clinical ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
practice CEX
Behaviour
Shows willingness to seek advice from the employer, appropriate ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
legal bodies (including defence societies), and the GMC on medico- CEX, MSF
legal matters
Promotes informed reflection on legal issues by members of the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
team; all decisions and actions must be in the best interests of the CEX, MSF
patient
Level Descriptor

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 Knows the legal framework associated with medical qualification and medical practice and the
1 responsibilities of registration with the GMC
Knows the limits to professional capabilities, particularly those of pre-registration doctors
Identifies to Senior Team Members cases which should be reported to external bodies and
where appropriate, and initiates that report
2 Identifies with Senior Members of the Clinical Team situations where you feel consideration of
medical legal matters may be of benefit; is aware of local Trust procedures around substance
abuse and clinical malpractice
Works with external strategy bodies around cases that should be reported to them; collaborates
with them on complex cases preparing brief statements and reports as required
3 Actively promotes discussion on medico-legal aspects of cases within the clinical environment
Participates in decision making with regard to resuscitation decisions and around decisions
related to driving, discussing the issues openly but sensitively with patients and relatives
Works with external strategy bodies around cases that should be reported to them; collaborates
with them on complex cases providing full medical legal statements as required and present
material in court where necessary
4
Leads the clinical team in ensuring that medico-legal factors are considered openly and
consistently wherever appropriate, in the care and best interests of the patient; ensures that
patients and relatives are involved openly in all such decisions

Ethical Research
To ensure that research is undertaken using relevant ethical guidelines
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the GMC guidance on good practice in research ACAT, CbD 1
Understands the principles of research governance AA, CbD, mini-CEX 1
Outlines the differences between audit and research CbD, mini-CEX 1
Describes how clinical guidelines are produced CbD 1
Demonstrates a knowledge of research principles CbD, mini-CEX 1
Outlines the principles of formulating a research question and CbD, mini-CEX 1
designing a project
Comprehends principal qualitative, quantitative, bio-statistical and CbD 1
epidemiological research methods
Outlines sources of research funding CbD 1
Understands the difference between population-based assessment CbD 1
and unit-based studies and is able to evaluate outcomes for
epidemiological work
Skills
Develops critical appraisal skills and applies these when reading CbD 1
literature
Demonstrates the ability to write a scientific paper CbD 1
Applies for appropriate ethical research approval CbD 1
Demonstrates the use of literature databases CbD 1
Demonstrates good verbal and written presentations skills CbD, DOPS 1

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Behaviour
Follows guidelines on ethical conduct in research and consent for CbD 1
research
Shows willingness to the promotion in research CbD 1
Level Descriptor
Defines ethical research and demonstrates awareness of GMC guidelines
Differentiates audit and research and understands the different types of research approach e.g.
1
qualitative and quantitative
Knows how to use databases
Demonstrates good presentation and writing skills
2 Demonstrates critical appraisal skills and demonstrates ability to critically appraise a published
paper
Demonstrates ability to apply for appropriate ethical research approval
3 Demonstrates knowledge of research organisation and funding sources
Demonstrates ability to write a scientific paper
Provides leadership in research
4 Promotes research activity
Formulates and develops research pathways

Evidence and Guidelines

To develop the ability to make the optimal use of current best evidence in making decisions
about the care of patients
To develop the ability to construct evidence based guidelines and protocols in relation to
medical practise
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands of the application of statistics in scientific medical MRCP Part 1, CbD 1
practice
Understands the advantages and disadvantages of different study MRCP Part 1, CbD 1
methodologies (randomised control trials, case controlled cohort etc)
Understands the principles of critical appraisal CbD 1
Understands levels of evidence and quality of evidence CbD 1
Understands the role and limitations of evidence in the development CbD 1
of clinical guidelines and protocols
Understands the advantages and disadvantages of guidelines and CbD 1
protocols
Understands the processes that result in nationally applicable CbD 1
guidelines (e.g. NICE and SIGN)
Understands the relative strengths and limitations of both quantitative CbD 1
and qualitative studies, and the different types of each
Skills
Ability to search the medical literature including use of PubMed, CbD 1
Medline, Cochrane reviews and the internet
Appraises retrieved evidence to address a clinical question CbD 1

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Applies conclusions from critical appraisal into clinical care CbD 1
Identifies the limitations of research CbD 1
Contributes to the construction, review and updating of local (and CbD 1
national) guidelines of good practice using the principles of evidence
based medicine
Behaviours
Keeps up to date with national reviews and guidelines of practice CbD 1
(e.g. NICE and SIGN)
Aims for best clinical practice (clinical effectiveness) at all times, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
responding to evidence-based medicine CEX
Recognises the occasional need to practise outside clinical guidelines ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
Encourages discussion amongst colleagues on evidence-based ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
practice CEX, MSF
Level Descriptor
Participates in departmental or other local journal club
Critically reviews an article to identify the level of evidence and submits the same for objective
1 review
Understands the importance of evidence based practice; is aware of the different levels of
evidence
Leads in a departmental or other local journal club
Undertakes a literature review in relation to a clinical problem or topic and presents the same
2
Able to explain the evidence base of clinical care to patients and to other members of the clinical
team
Produces a review article on a clinical topic, having reviewed and appraised the relevant
3
literature
Performs a systematic review of the medical literature
4
Contributes to the development of local or national clinical guidelines and protocol

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Audit
To develop the ability to perform an audit of clinical practice and to apply the findings
appropriately and complete the audit cycle
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the different methods of obtaining data for audit, AA, CbD 1
including patient feedback questionnaires, hospital sources and
national reference data
Understands the role of audit (improving patient care and services, AA, CbD 1
risk management etc)
Understands the steps involved in completing the audit cycle AA, CbD 1
Understands the working and uses of national and local databases AA, CbD 1
used for audit, such as specialty data collection systems, cancer
registries etc;
Understands the working and uses of local and national systems AA 1
available for reporting and learning from clinical incidents and near
misses in the UK
Skills
Designs, implements and completes audit cycles AA, CbD 1, 2
Contributes to local and national audit projects as appropriate (e.g. AA, CbD 1, 2
NCEPOD, SASM)
Supports audit by junior medical trainees and within the multi- AA, CbD 1, 2
disciplinary team
Behaviours
Recognises the need for audit in clinical practice to promote standard AA, CbD 1, 2
setting and quality assurance
Level Descriptor
Attendance at departmental audit meetings
1 Contributes data to a local or national audit
Suggests ideas for local audits
Identifies a problem and develop standards for a local audit
2
Describes the PDSA (plan, do, study, act) audit cycle and takes an audit through the first steps
Compares the results of an audit with criteria and standards to reach conclusions
Uses the findings of an audit to develop and implement change
3
Organises or leads a departmental audit meeting
Understands the links between audit and quality improvement
Leads a complete clinical audit cycle, including development of conclusions, the changes needed
for improvement, implementation of findings and re-audit to assess the effectiveness of the
4 changes
Becomes audit lead for an institution or organisation

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Teaching and Training
To develop the ability to teach to a variety of different audiences in a variety of different ways
To be able to assess the quality of the teaching
To be able to train a variety of different trainees in a variety of different ways
To be able to plan and deliver a training programme with appropriate assessments
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes relevant educational theories and principles CbD 1
Outlines adult learning principles relevant to medical education CbD 1
Demonstrates knowledge of literature relevant to developments and CbD 1
challenges in medical education and other sectors
Outlines the structure of an effective appraisal interview CbD 1
Defines the roles of the various bodies involved in medical education CbD, 1
and other sectors
Identification of learning methods and effective learning objectives CbD 1
and outcomes
Describes the difference between learning objectives and outcomes CbD 1
Differentiates between appraisal and assessment and performance CbD 1
review and is aware of the need for both
Differentiates between formative and summative assessment and CbD 1
defines their role in medical education
Outlines the structure of the effective appraisal review CbD 1
Outlines the role of workplace-based assessments, the assessment CbD 1
tools in use, their relationship to course learning outcomes, the
factors that influence their selection and the need for monitoring
evaluation
Outlines the appropriate local course of action to assist a trainee CbD 1
experiencing difficulty in making progress within their training
programme
Skills
Is able to critically evaluate relevant educational literature CbD 1
Varies teaching format and stimulus, as appropriate to situation and CbD, TO 1
subject
Provides effective and appropriate feedback after teaching, and CbD, MSF 1
promotes learner reflection
Conducts developmental conversations as appropriate, for example, CbD, MSF 1
appraisal, supervision, mentoring
Demonstrates effective lecture, presentation, small group and CbD, MSF, TO 1, 3
bedside teaching sessions
Provides appropriate career support, or refers trainee to an CbD, MSF 1, 3
alternative effective source of career information
Participates in strategies aimed at improving patient education e.g. CbD, MSF, TO 1
talking at support group meetings
Is able to lead departmental teaching programmes, including journal CbD 1
clubs
Recognises the trainee in difficulty and takes appropriate action, CbD, TO 1

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including where relevant referral to other services
Is able to identify and plan learning activities in the workplace CbD 1
Contributes to educational research or projects e.g. through the CbD 1
development of research ideas of data/information gathering
Is able to manage personal time and resources effectively to the CbD 1
benefit of the educational faculty and the need of the learners
Behaviour
In discharging educational duties acts to maintain the dignity and CbD, MSF, TO 1, 4
safety of patients at all times
Recognises the importance of the role of the physician as an CbD, MSF, TO 1
educator within the multi-professional healthcare team and uses
medical education to enhance the care of patients
Balances the needs of service delivery with education CbD, MSF, TO 1
Demonstrates willingness to teach trainees and other health and CbD, MSF, TO 1
social workers in a variety of settings to maximise effective
communication and practical skills and to improve patient care
Demonstrates consideration for learners, including their emotional, CbD, MSF, TO 1
physical and psychological wellbeing, along with their development
needs; acts to ensure equality of opportunity for students, trainees,
staff and professional colleagues
Encourages discussions with colleagues in clinical settings to share CbD, MSF, TO 1, 3
knowledge and understanding
Maintains honesty and objectivity during appraisal and assessment CbD, MSF, TO 1
Shows willingness to participate in workplace-based assessments CbD, MSF, TO 1
and demonstrates a clear understanding of their purpose
Shows willingness to take up formal training as a trainer and CbD, MSF, TO 1, 3
responds to feedback obtained after teaching sessions
Demonstrates a willingness to become involved in the wider medical CbD, MSF, TO 1
education activities and fosters an enthusiasm for medical education
activity in others
Recognises the importance of personal development as a role model CbD, MSF, TO 1
to guide trainees in aspects of good professional behaviour
Demonstrates a willingness to advance own educational capability CbD, MSF, TO 1
through continuous learning
Acts to enhance and improve educational provision through CbD, MSF, TO 1
evaluation of own practice
Contributes to educational policy and development at local or national CbD, MSF, TO 1
levels
Level Descriptor
Able to prepare appropriate materials to support teaching episodes
1
Able to seek and interpret simple feedback following teaching
Able to supervise a medical student, nurse or colleague through a procedure
Able to perform a workplace based assessment including being able to give effective and
2 appropriate feedback
Delivers small group teaching to medical students, nurses or colleagues
Able to teach clinical skills effectively
3 Able to devise a variety of different assessments (e.g. multiple choice questions, work place

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 based assessments)
Able to appraise a medical student, nurse or colleague
Able to act as a mentor to a medical student, nurses or colleague
Able to plan, develop and deliver educational activities with clear objectives and outcomes
4
Able to plan, develop and deliver an assessment programme to support educational activities

Personal Behaviour
To develop the behaviours that will enable the doctor to become a senior leader able to deal with
complex situations and difficult behaviours and attitudes. To work increasingly effectively with
many teams and to be known to put the quality and safety of patient care as a prime objective
To develop the attributes of someone who is trusted to be able to manage complex human, legal
and ethical problem. To become someone who is trusted and is known to act fairly in all
situations
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recalls and builds upon the competences defined in the Foundation ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2,3,4
Programme Curriculum: CEX, MSF, PS
 Deals with inappropriate patient and family behaviour
 Respects the rights of children, elderly, people with physical,
mental, learning or communication difficulties
 Adopts an approach to eliminate discrimination against
patients from diverse backgrounds including age, gender,
race, culture, disability and sexuality
 Places needs of patients above own convenience
 Behaves with honesty and probity
 Acts with honesty and sensitivity in a non-confrontational
manner
 Knows the main methods of ethical reasoning: casuistry,
ontology and consequential
 Understands the overall approach of value-based practice
and how this relates to ethics, law and decision-making
Defines the concept of modern medical professionalism CbD 1
Outlines the relevance of professional bodies (Royal Colleges, CbD 1
JRCPTB, GMC, Postgraduate Dean, BMA, specialist societies,
medical defence societies)
Skills
Practises with professionalism including: ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2, 3,
CEX, MSF, PS 4
 Integrity
 Compassion
 Altruism
 Continuous improvement
 Aspiration to excellence
 Respect of cultural and ethnic diversity
 Regard to the principles of equity

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Works in partnership with patients and members of the wider ACAT, CbD, mini- 3
healthcare team CEX, MSF
Liaises with colleagues to plan and implement work rotas ACAT, MSF 3
Promotes awareness of the doctor’s role in utilising healthcare ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 3
resources optimally and within defined resource constraints CEX, MSF
Recognises and responds appropriately to unprofessional behaviour ACAT, CbD 1
in others
If appropriate and permitted, is able to provide specialist support to ACAT, CbD, MSF 1
hospital and community-based services
Is able to handle enquiries from the press and other media effectively CbD, DOPS 1, 3
Behaviour
Recognises personal beliefs and biases and understands their impact ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
on the delivery of health services CEX, MSF
Where personal beliefs and biases impact upon professional practice, ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
ensures appropriate referral of the patient CEX, MSF
Recognises the need to use all healthcare resources prudently and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
appropriately CEX
Recognises the need to improve clinical leadership and management ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
skill CEX
Recognises situations when it is appropriate to involve professional ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
and regulatory bodies CEX
Shows willingness to act as a leader, mentor, educator and role ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
model CEX, MSF
Is willing to accept mentoring as a positive contribution to promote ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
personal professional development CEX
Participates in professional regulation and professional development CbD, mini-CEX, MSF 1
Takes part in 360 degree feedback as part of appraisal CbD, MSF 1, 2, 4
Recognises the right for equity of access to healthcare ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX,
Recognises need for reliability and accessibility throughout the ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
healthcare team CEX, MSF
Level Descriptor
Works work well within the context of multi-professional teams
Listens well to others and takes other viewpoints into consideration
1
Supports patients and relatives at times of difficulty e.g. after receiving difficult news
Is polite and calm when called or asked to help
Responds to criticism positively and seeks to understand its origins and works to improve
Praises staff when they have done well and where there are failings in delivery of care provides
2 constructive feedback
Wherever possible, involves patients in decision making
Recognises when other staff are under stress and not performing as expected and provides
3 appropriate support for them.
Takes action necessary to ensure that patient safety is not compromised
Helps patients who show anger or aggression towards staff or with regards to their care or
4/5 situation, and works with them to find an approach to manage their problem
Is able to engender trust so that staff feel confident about sharing difficult problems and feel able

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 to point out deficiencies in care at an early stage

Management and NHS Structure

To understand the structure of the NHS and the management of local healthcare systems in
order to be able to participate fully in managing healthcare provision
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the guidance given on management and doctors by the CbD 1
GMC
Understands the local structure of NHS systems in the locality, ACAT, CbD 1
recognising the potential differences between the four countries of the
UK
Be familiar with the range of agencies that can provide care and CbD 1
support in and out of hospital, and how they can be accessed
Understand, the structure and function of healthcare systems as they ACAT, CbD 1
apply to your specialty
Understands the consistent debates and changes that occur in the CbD 1
NHS including the political, social, technical, economic,
organisational and professional aspects that can impact on provision
of service
Understands the importance of local demographic, socio-economic CbD 1
and health data and the use to improve system performance
Understands the principles of: ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX
 Clinical coding
 European Working Time Regulations including rest provisions
 National Service Frameworks
 Health regulatory agencies (e.g., NICE, Scottish Government)
 NHS Structure and relationships
 NHS finance and budgeting
 Consultant contract and the contracting process
 Resource allocation
 The role of the Independent sector as providers of healthcare
 Patient and public involvement processes and role
Understands the principles of recruitment and appointment CbD 1
procedures
Skills
Participates in managerial meetings ACAT, CbD 1
Takes an active role in promoting the best use of healthcare ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
resources CEX
Works with stakeholders to create and sustain a patient-centred ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
service CEX
Employs new technologies appropriately, including information ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
technology CEX

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Conducts an assessment of the community needs for specific health CbD, mini-CEX 1
improvement measures
Behaviour
Recognises the importance of equitable allocation of healthcare CbD 1, 2
resources and of commissioning
Recognises the role of doctors as active participants in healthcare ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
systems CEX
Responds appropriately to health service objectives and targets and ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2
take part in the development of services CEX
Recognises the role of patients and carers as active participants in ACAT, CbD, mini- 1, 2, 3
healthcare systems and service planning CEX, PS
Shows willingness to improve managerial skills (e.g. management CbD, MSF 1
courses) and engage in management of the service
Level Descriptor
Works as a valued member of the multi-professional team.
Listens well to others and takes other viewpoints into consideration
1 Supports patients and relatives at times of difficulty e.g. after receiving difficult news
Is polite and calm when called or asked to help
Acknowledges the skills of all members of the team
Can describe in outline the roles of primary care, including general practice, public health,
community, mental health, secondary and tertiary care services within healthcare
2
Can describe the roles of members of the clinical team and the relationships between those roles
Participates fully in clinical coding arrangements and other relevant local activities.
Can describe the relationship between PCTs/Health Boards, General Practice and Trusts
including relationships with local authorities and social services
Participates in team and clinical directorate meetings including discussions around service
3
development
Discusses the most recent guidance from the relevant health regulatory agencies in relation to
the specialty
Describes the local structure for health services and how they relate to regional or devolved
administration structures; is able to discuss funding allocation processes from central
government in outline and how that might impact on the local health organisation
Participates fully in clinical directorate meetings and other appropriate local management
4 structures in planning and delivering healthcare within the specialty
Participates as appropriate in staff recruitment processes in order to deliver an effective clinical
team
Within the Directorate, collaborates with other stake holders to ensure that their needs and views
are considered in managing services

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Personal qualities of a Gastroenterologist
To demonstrate the personal qualities of a gastroenterologist. The trainee will be required to
draw upon their own values, strengths and abilities to deliver high standards of care.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Demonstrate the knowledge of how patients with gastro intestinal liver CbD, mini-CEX 1
disease are affected by their illness
Demonstrate the knowledge of the effect of Gastro Intestinal liver CbD, mini-CEX 1
disease on quality of life capacity, capacity for work, interpersonal
relationships and indeed the general well being of an individual.
Demonstrate knowledge of tools and techniques for managing stress CbD, mini-CEX 1
Skills
Ability to advise people of desirable alterations to lifestyle in an CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
effective but firm and empathic manner
Ability to develop creative solutions to transform services and care CbD, mini-CEX 1
Ability to undertake an audit project CbD, mini-CEX, AA 1
Behaviours
Display self awareness: being aware of their own values, principles, MSF, mini-CEX 3
assumptions, and by being able to learn from experiences.
Recognise when self or others are falling behind and take steps to MSF, CbD 1, 3
rectify the situation.
Recognise the importance of induction for new members of a team. MSF, CbD 1, 3
Demonstrate self management: organising and managing themselves CbD, PS 3
while taking account of the needs and priorities of others.
Self development: learns through participating in continuing MSF, mini-CEX 3
professional development and from experience and feedback.
Act with integrity: behaving in an open and ethical manner. MSF, PS 4

Management of patients requiring Palliative and End of life Care

To be able to work and liaise with a multi-disciplinary team in the management of patients
requiring palliative and end of life care.
To be able to recognise the dying phase of a terminal illness, assess and care for a patient who
is dying and be able to prepare the patient and family.
To be able to devise an appropriate management plan and facilitate advance care planning
Assessment GMP
Knowledge Methods Domains

Describe different disease trajectories and prognostic indicators and ACAT, CbD, 1
the signs that a patient is dying mini-CEX
Know that specialist palliative care is appropriate for patients with ACAT, CbD, 1,3
other life threatening illnesses as well as those with cancer mini-CEX
Describe the pharmacology of major drug classes used in palliative ACAT, CbD, 1
care, including opioids, NSAIDS, agents for neuropathic pain, mini-CEX
bisphosphonates, laxatives, anxiolytics, and antiemetics. Describe
common side effects of drugs commonly used
Describe the analgesic ladder, role of radiotherapy, surgery and other ACAT, CbD, 1

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non-pharmacological treatments mini-CEX
Describe advance care planning CbD, mini-CEX 1
Knowledge of a spectrum of professional and complementary CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
therapies available, e.g. palliative medicine, hospice and other
community services, nutritional support, pain relief, psychology of
dying.
Know about End of Life Integrated Care Pathway documentation e.g. ACAT, CbD, 1
Liverpool ICP for the last days of life mini-CEX
Know about the use of syringe drivers ACAT, CbD, 1
mini-CEX
Outline spiritual care services & when to refer CbD, mini-CEX 1
Describe the role of the coroner and when to refer to them ACAT, CbD, 1
mini-CEX
Skills
Recognising when a patient may be in the last days / weeks of life ACAT, CbD, 1
mini-CEX
Be able to assess the patient’s physical, and social needs ACAT, CbD, 1
mini-CEX
Is able to take an accurate pain history, recognising that patients may ACAT, CbD, 1
have multiple pains and causes of pain mini-CEX
Is able to prescribe opioids correctly and safely using appropriate ACAT, CbD, 1, 2
routes of administration mini-CEX
Able to assess response to analgesia and recognise medication side ACAT, CbD, 1, 2
effects or toxicity mini-CEX
Is able to assess and manage other symptom control problems ACAT, CbD, 1
including nausea and vomiting, constipation, breathlessness, excess mini-CEX
respiratory tract secretions, agitation, anxiety and depression

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 2. Core Competencies for all Gastroenterologists

a) Basic and Applied Science in Gastroenterology

Basic Science in Gastroenterology

Clinical Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry
To understand the relevance of basic science to clinical practice
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the development, structure and function of the normal SCE 1
gastrointestinal tract and the liver
Is aware of how disease processes can disturb normal anatomical CbD, SCE 1
structure
Describes the contribution of disordered gastrointestinal motility both CbD, mini- CEX, SCE 1,3
to patients’ symptoms and to their diseases
Is aware of how diseases result from alterations in gastric secretion, CbD, SCE 1,2,3
intestinal absorption and secretion, and disordered function of the
liver and pancreas
Is aware of the normal micro-structure of the gut and liver and how SCE 1
they can be affected by disease processes
Knows those aspects of biochemistry relevant to normal SCE 1
gastrointestinal and liver function and understand how diseases may
either result from or cause abnormal biochemical processes
Skills
Shows recognition of the importance of a thorough grounding in basic SCE 1,2,4
science to gaining an understanding of gastrointestinal disease
processes
Behaviours
Adjusts explanations of all aspects of clinical gastroenterology CbD, PS 1,2,3,4
according to patients’ understanding

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 Applied science in Gastroenterology
Applied Sciences 1: Clinical Genetics and Epidemiology
To understand the relevance of genetics and epidemiology to clinical practice
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the basics of clinical genetics, including both ‘classical’ and SCE 1
molecular genetics
Understands the patterns of inheritance of gastrointestinal and liver SCE 1
diseases.
Aware of the developing understanding of how genetic factors may be SCE 1
important in a growing number of diseases
Understands how techniques of molecular biology can explain SCE 1
predisposition to disease
Aware of the epidemiological factors that contribute to developing SCE 1
gastrointestinal and liver diseases and of the scientific methods used
to determine disease associations
Describes genetic and environmental causes for disease SCE 1
Skills
Is able to identify genetic and environmental factors underlying mini-CEX, PS, SCE 1,4
disease in individual patients and to advise them accordingly
Behaviour
Seeks advice from appropriate specialists, including referral for CbD, SCE 1,2,3,4
genetic counselling where appropriate

Applied Sciences 2: Pathology and Radiology

To understand the importance of pathology and radiology
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Pathology: SCE 1,2
Knows the basic pathological changes that occur in gastrointestinal
and liver diseases
Understands and can utilise the significance of the information that
clinical pathologists are able to provide
Radiology: SCE 1,2,3
Knows how the range of potential diagnostic imaging techniques can
aid patient management
Is able to select the most appropriate imaging techniques to aid
management in specific clinical situations, Is aware of the potential of
radiologically-guided interventions
Describes the relevant contributions of different specialists to SCE 1
diagnosis and management
Skills
Can choose the appropriate investigations in specific clinical CbD, DOPS, SCE 1,2,3
situations

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Interprets the results of pathological and radiological investigations CbD, DOPS, SCE 1,2,3
Behaviours
Liaises with specialists in other disciplines in selecting the most CbD 1,2,3
appropriate investigations.

Applied Sciences 3: Immunology and Microbiology

To understand the relevance of immunology and microbiology
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Immunology: SCE 1
Knows the role of the immune system in mucosal defence
mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract
Is aware of the role and consequences of disordered immunity in both SCE 1
gastrointestinal and liver diseases
Understands the role of medical treatment in modifying immune SCE 1,2
responses
Microbiology: SCE 1,2
Recognises the huge importance of infection as a cause of
gastrointestinal and liver disease and the different range of infections
around the world.
Knows the clinical presentations of such infections, their diagnosis CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
and appropriate treatments
Appreciates the importance of infection in the pathogenesis of CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
complications of liver disease, such as variceal bleeding, hepatorenal
failure and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and role of prophylactic
antibiotics
Skills
Considers disordered immunity or infection as a cause of a patient’s ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2,3,4
disease CEX, SCE
Uses laboratory investigations appropriately ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2,3,4
CEX, SCE
Uses antibiotics and immunomodulatory drugs appropriately ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2,3,4
CEX, SCE
Behaviours
Can assess and manage patients presenting with a wide range of CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
conditions to which infection and disordered immunity contribute

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Applied Sciences 4: Oncology
To understand the principles of oncology.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the essentials of the biology of tumours of the SCE 1
gastrointestinal tract and the liver
Knows those conditions which are potentially pre- malignant SCE 1
Understands the principles of screening and surveillance SCE 1,2
Is aware of the ways in which tumours present clinically and the mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
means by which they can be diagnosed and staged
Understands the range of treatment options, their effectiveness and mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
their possible complications
Knows the principles of palliative care CbD, PS 1,3,4
Aware of the modern interdisciplinary management of gastrointestinal CbD 1,3,4
cancers. The gastroenterologist acting with radiologists, pathologists,
oncologists, surgeons, palliative care specialists and clinical nurse as
well as interacting with primary care practitioners
Skills
Be able to make a timely and accurate clinical assessment of patients ACAT, CbD, mini- 1,2,3,4
with malignant disease, select appropriate investigations and refer to CEX, SCE
the specialist multi-disciplinary team
Demonstrates awareness of how different members of the team CbD, MSF 1,3
communicate and respect, value and acknowledge the roles,
contributions and expertise of others
Identify and prioritise tasks and responsibilities including to delegate CbD, MSF 1,2,3
and supervise safely
Behaviours
Makes a prompt diagnosis and plan of management mini-CEX ,PS, MSF 1,3,4
Shows empathy when breaking bad news. Uses a holistic approach mini-CEX, MSF 3,4
to patient management.
Works effectively within the multidisciplinary team MSF 3

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 b) Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders
Oesophageal Symptoms
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux
To understand the mechanisms of reflux and its clinical management.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises the typical clinical presentations of gastro-oesophageal CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
reflux
Is aware of the relationships of reflux to pharyngeal, laryngeal and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
respiratory symptoms
Knows the range of diagnostic tests CbD, DOPS, SCE 1,2
Knows the role of endoscopy and radiology CbD, DOPS, SCE 1,2
Understands the role of physiological investigation including CbD, DOPS, SCE 1,2
ambulatory pH monitoring
Understands the complications of reflux disease CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Recognises the importance of the development of columnar-lined DOPS, SCE 1,2
mucosa; follow-up of such patients and the role of surveillance
Knows the treatment options, both medical and surgical CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Skills
Can make a clinical assessment, select appropriate CbD, mini-CEX 1,4
investigations and devise a plan for treatment and follow-up
Behaviours
Explains the condition to the patient and discuss the options for mini-CEX 1,3,4
management with sensitivity and in an understandable manner

Dysphagia and Non Cardiac Chest Pain

To understand the causes of non-cardiac chest pain and dysphagia, and how patients are
managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Dysphagia:
Knows the various causes of dysphagia and their clinical CbD, SCE 1
presentations
Understands the methods of assessment and investigation including CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
the use of manometric assessment where appropriate
Knows the range of therapeutic options including the potential for CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
endoscopic treatment, and how to select appropriate treatment
Non-Cardiac Chest Pain:
Understands the potential role of the oesophagus in patients CbD, SCE 1
presenting with chest pain in whom a cardiac cause has been
excluded and its role in the genesis of functional symptoms.
Knows the range of appropriate investigation of such patients and the CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
various avenues of management

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Carcinoma of the Oesophagus:
Knows the predisposing factors, presentation, diagnostic work-up and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3,4
staging
Knows the range of potential therapies (including palliative care), and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3,4
understand how the appropriate selection is made
Skills
Can make a thorough clinical assessment, select investigations CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
appropriately and plan therapy.
Behaviours
Manages patients with oesophageal disease with care and mini-CEX 1,3,4
compassion.

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 Gastro-Duodenal Diseases
Dyspepsia and Peptic Ulcer
Understand the clinical management of patients with ulcer and non-ulcer dyspepsia
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Dyspepsia and Peptic Ulcer:
Knows the range of organic and non-organic causes of dyspepsia. Be CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
aware of current BSG and NICE guidelines for selecting patients for
investigation. Know the significance of alarm symptoms
Understands the relevance of Helicobacter pylori infection and how it CbD, SCE 1
can be detected and treated. Recognise the adverse effect of non-
steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Understands the physiology of gastric acid secretion, mucosal SCE 1
protection and gastroduodenal motility and know how drugs can
modify these
Knows the complications of ulcer disease, the principles of surgery CbD, SCE 1,2
that may be required and be aware of post-operative sequelae
Skills
Makes a thorough clinical assessment, perform appropriate CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,4
investigations and be familiar with how medical treatments are used.
Show awareness of how to recognise and manage complications CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,4
Behaviours
Can explain the steps taken towards making a diagnosis and mini-CEX 1,3
planning treatment clearly and comprehensibly

Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Understand the presentation and management of patients presenting with haematemesis and/or
melaena
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and its CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
presentation
Understands the circulatory disturbance associated with blood loss CbD, SCE 1
and the pathophysiology underlying the clinical manifestations of
hypovolaemic shock
Knows the principles of assessing hypovolaemia and of restoring the CbD, SCE 1
circulation. Be able to identify and correct coagulopathy
Knows the principles of using the various risk stratification tools SCE 1
Knows how endoscopic techniques are used to control bleeding CbD, DOPS, SCE 1
Understands how oesophageal and gastric varices develop and the CbD, SCE 1
endoscopic and pharmacological methods that are used to control
blood loss
Skills
Can make an accurate clinical assessment, and stratify the risk. Know ACAT, DOPS, SCE 1,2,3
the principles of fluid resuscitation and arrange endoscopy

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Is aware of methods to secure haemostasis, recognise signs of re- ACAT, DOPS, SCE 1,2,3
bleeding and liaise with other disciplines (such as interventional
radiology or surgery
Behaviours
Assesses and treats patients who have bleeding with appropriate CbD, DOPS, MSF 1,2,3,4
degree of urgency.

Significant Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Understand the range of symptoms arising from the upper GI tract and how patients with these
are managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Nausea and Vomiting:
Understands the pathophysiology of vomiting CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Appreciates the gastrointestinal conditions that cause nausea and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
vomiting as well as the range of extra-intestinal causes
Recognises the influence of neurological conditions and metabolic CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
derangements such as diabetes
Understands the physiology of gastric emptying and how this is SCE 1
affected by disease, toxins and drugs
Abdominal Pain: 1
Knows the causes of acute and chronic abdominal pain that arise ACAT, CbD, mini-
from upper gastrointestinal, biliary and pancreatic diseases CEX, SCE
Understands the clinical presentations of the various conditions ACAT, CbD, mini-
causing pain and the means by which they can be diagnosed and CEX, SCE
treated
Weight Loss:
Knows the significance of weight loss as a consequence of upper CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
gastrointestinal disease, knows those conditions that present with
loss of weight and how they are managed
Skills
Makes a detailed clinical assessment of patients presenting with ACAT, CbD 1
symptoms indicating possible upper gastrointestinal disease,
construct a management plan and be aware of the various avenues
of treatment
Behaviours
Evaluates patients in a structured and timely manner, carries out CbD, PS 3,4
appropriate investigations and formulates management plan.

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 c) Intestinal Disorders
Abdominal Pain
Understands the causes of acute and chronic abdominal pain and how patients with these
symptoms are managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the causes of acute and chronic abdominal pain originating CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
both from the gastrointestinal tract and elsewhere
Understands the mechanisms by which pain is produced in the SCE 1
various conditions and the underlying basis of pain perception
Knows the methods of clinical assessment and the means of CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
investigation
Understands the range of treatment options for managing acute and CbD, SCE 1
chronic pain – both pharmacological and otherwise, and knows the
safe use of appropriate analgesics
Knows how psychological factors can modify a patient’s response to CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
pain
Skills
Can take a thorough history and elicit physical signs in patients with CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
abdominal pain
Can plan investigations appropriately, reach a diagnosis and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
formulate a plan of management
Behaviours
Shows understanding of the patient’s anxiety and responds mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
sympathetically. Appreciates the need for pain control
Relates effectively with specialists in other disciplines when mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
appropriate
Shows compassion in managing patients with chronic pain especially mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
when response to treatment has been disappointing

Diarrhoea
Understands the causes of acute and chronic diarrhoea and their management.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the physiology of intestinal absorption, secretion and motility SCE 1
Understands the biochemical processes occurring within the gut SCE 1
lumen and at mucosal level
Has awareness of the factors controlling these processes – in SCE 1
particular the neuro-endocrine influences
Understands the range of mechanisms by which diarrhoea can result SCE 1
from disturbances in each of these processes
Knows the causes of both acute and chronic diarrhoea mini-CEX, SCE 1
Knows the range of investigations appropriate to determining the CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
cause of the patient’s diarrhoea and is aware of the range of
therapeutic possibilities

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Skills
Makes a detailed clinical assessment of patients that present with CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
either acute or chronic diarrhoea
Recognises the potential need for urgent fluid replacement CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
Makes appropriate use of microbiology and other relevant CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
laboratories in reaching a diagnosis
Shows ability to interpret results, reach a diagnosis and formulate a CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,3
treatment plan
Behaviours
Reacts appropriately to the urgency of the clinical presentation CbD, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
Always shows sympathy and understanding especially when the CbD, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
patient is distressed

Functional Gut Disorders: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Understands functional gut disorders and the approach to their treatment.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Shows understanding of contemporary knowledge of the range of CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
factors that control gastrointestinal motility, as well as the means by
which symptoms arising from the GI tract are perceived.
In particular, can describe the enteric nervous system and SCE 1
understands the ways in which drugs can modify its functioning
Can describe the brain-gut axis and the role of psychological factors SCE 1
in the genesis of symptoms
Can describe the symptomatology and range of clinical presentations CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
of patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Knows the diagnostic criteria CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Realises the importance of careful clinical assessment as well as the CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
need for appropriate selection of investigations
Knows the evidence-based treatment options for IBS and the mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
importance of a holistic and individualised approach to patient
management
Skills
Can make an accurate clinical assessment of patients with irritable CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
bowel syndrome
Uses investigations selectively CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
Communicates the diagnosis clearly and sympathetically CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
Appreciates the degree to which functional gut problems can impair CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
quality of life. Involves patients in making choice of treatment options
Can explain, where appropriate, that a psychological treatment might CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
be helpful and refer appropriately
Behaviours
Show a sympathetic understanding of the relevance of symptoms to mini-CEX 1,4
the individual and never appears dismissive
Takes time to explain nature of the condition, the treatment options mini-CEX 1,4

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and appreciates their (often) limited effectiveness

Functional Gut Disorders: Constipation and Disordered Defaecation

Understands functional gut disorders and the approach to their treatment
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the functional anatomy and physiology of normal colon, SCE 1
rectum and anus

Can describe the causes of constipation. Distinguishes disordered gut CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
transit from abnormalities of the process of defaecation
Understands how abnormal transit and disordered anorectal anatomy SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,2
and physiology may be investigated – including radiology and
anorectal manometry
Knows the mechanisms of continence and how these may be mini-CEX, SCE 1
affected by disease
Recognises syndromes of disordered defaecation including spurious mini-CEX, SCE 1
diarrhoea, obstructed defaecation, Hirschsprung’s disease
Knows the range of treatment options including drugs, biofeedback CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
and the possible role of surgery
Skills
Shows ability to carry out a detailed clinical assessment, can select CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
investigations appropriately and advise the patient on options for
treatment
Understands how to use laxatives judiciously CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Behaviours
Always uses a sympathetic and professional approach to the patient MSF, PS 1,4
and takes appropriate steps to minimise embarrassment
Explains nature of problem and outlines options for investigation and MSF, PS 1,4
treatment

Inflammatory and Infective Conditions

Understands the presentation and management of infective and inflammatory disorders.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises the range of important inflammatory conditions of the SCE 1
intestine other than inflammatory bowel disease
Knows the range of potential aetiologies including infection and mini-CEX, SCE 1
ischaemia
Understands how diverticular disease can give rise to complications mini-CEX, SCE 1
Knows how diseases can affect the peritoneum and how such mini-CEX, SCE 1
conditions can present both in the acute and chronic situation
Knows the range of both acute and chronic intestinal infections and mini-CEX, SCE 1
their various presentations
Knows the means of investigations of infectious diseases and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
understands the principles and use of antimicrobial therapy

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Skills
Makes a full clinical assessment of patients presenting with infective CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,4
and inflammatory conditions
Recognises the potential urgency of the clinical situation. Selects CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2,4
appropriate investigations and treatments
Behaviours
Manages patients with inflammatory and infective conditions carefully, mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,4
competently and sympathetically.

Large Intestinal Tumours

To recognise the presentation of colorectal tumours, how they are diagnosed and managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the pathology of benign and malignant tumours of the colon SCE 1
and rectum
Has awareness of the molecular genetics of colorectal SCE 1
carcinogenesis and the adenoma-carcinoma sequence
Knows the range of predisposing conditions including inherited SCE 1
syndromes and acquired colonic diseases
Knows the range of clinical presentation and the means of CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
diagnosis, investigation, management and follow-up
Knows the strategy for prevention including procedures for CbD, SCE 1
screening
Skills
Uses clinical assessment and selects investigations to reach a rapid CbD, mini-CEX, 1,3
conclusion as to whether a patient might have colorectal cancer and MSF, SCE
arranges timely investigation.
Refers the patient to the multi-disciplinary team CbD, mini-CEX, 1,3
MSF, SCE
Behaviours
Shows ability to react to possible diagnosis of malignancy in a timely mini-CEX, MSF, PS 2,3,4
manner
Communicates with patient and family in a sympathetic and mini-CEX, MSF, PS 2,3,4
understanding manner, explains next steps, involves other health
professionals (including the GP) as appropriate

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Rectal Bleeding and Perianal Conditions
Know the causes of rectal bleeding and their management.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the clinical anatomy of the rectum and anus SCE 1
Knows the causes of rectal bleeding and the methods of investigation SCE 1
to determine the cause
Has awareness of the range of perianal conditions (which includes CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
abscesses and fistula), their clinical presentation and their
complications
Knows the techniques of investigation and the possible medical and CbD, SCE 1
surgical treatments
Is aware of the treatment options for radiation proctitis CbD, SCE 1
Skills
Take a history and appropriately examines the anus and rectum CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
Refers the patient for the appropriate endoscopic and radiological CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
investigations
Behaviours
Manages patients with anorectal disease in a sympathetic manner, mini-CEX, MSF, PS 2,3,4
recognising and addressing the concerns caused by such conditions

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 Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Diagnosis and Investigation
To recognise and understand the differential diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, and the
investigations required to investigate and diagnose it.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the differential diagnosis of IBD including bacterial and SCE 1
amoebic infection, CMV, IBS, drug induced injury (NSAIDs)
microscopic colitis and vasculitis.
Skills
Uses appropriate investigations including blood tests, stool cultures CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
and intestinal imaging modalities.
Behaviours
Exhibits sympathy to patient, orders appropriate tests in a timely CbD, MSF, PS 1,3,4
manner, and involves members of the multidisciplinary team including
IBD nurse and surgeon as appropriate.

Treatment
To understand the treatment options available for IBD especially in the acute situation, and to
recognise the importance of involving the patient and appropriate healthcare professionals and
in decision making.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the criteria for assessing the severity and extent of IBD, in CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
particular recognition of acute severe colitis. Knows treatment options
including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and steroid sparing
therapies.
Knows differing methods of delivery for therapy. CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Skills
Selects of appropriate treatment for extent and severity of disease, CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
including timing of immunomodulator therapy and referral for surgery.
Behaviours
Recognises the urgency of treating acutely sick patients, including mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
multidisciplinary team early, particularly surgeons. Clearly explains
the clinical situation and treatment options to patient and family.
Involves patient and family in decision making about treatment
options.

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Complications and Special Situations
To recognise long term complications of IBD, and their treatment including medical and surgical
treatment.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the complications of IBD including stricturing, fistulae, CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
extraintestinal manifestations, colon cancer and special situations
such as pregnancy.
Skills
Able to recognise potential complications and take appropriate action CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
to investigate and alter treatment as necessary including referral for
surgery and involvement of other healthcare professionals
Behaviours
Works with patient to explain complications and options for treatment mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
Involves the multidisciplinary team especially IBD nurse and surgeon mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
in management, and tailors treatment to the needs of the patient.
Discusses with colleagues early and appropriately

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 d) Nutrition
During this module, which will typically take place over a 3-6 month period in an
accredited unit, specialty registrars will have the opportunity to develop training and
expertise in the core principles of nutritional support and management of intestinal
failure.

Accredited core nutrition training centres should have as a minimum:

 At least one consultant with an interest in nutrition;
 A nutrition steering committee, with senior multi-professional representation,
which meets regularly;
 A multi-professional nutrition support team, which meets at least weekly and
which should include a doctor, dietician, nurse and pharmacist.

During this module, trainees should become an integral member of the nutrition
support team and fulfil the following roles:
 Attend weekly nutrition ward rounds
 Review patients between ward rounds and provide clinical input at ward
rounds
 Assess patients for consideration of gastrostomy placement
 Assess patients for consideration of parenteral nutrition (PN)

Trainees will be expected to maintain a portfolio, which should contain the following
and be included for review at their ARCP:
 Evidence of WBAs as detailed in ARCP decision grid
 At least nine reflective ward round patient lists
 Report from supervising Consultant

Nutritional Screening and Assessment

To be able to detect under and over nutrition and manage appropriately
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the body composition, energy homeostasis, requirements SCE 1
and sources of macro and micronutrients and consequences of
deficiency or excess
Outlines the different methods available to assess nutritional status SCE 1
Skills
Is able to use and interpret a valid nutrition screening tool (e.g. mini-CEX 1
MUST)
Can assess the nutritional status of individual patients using mini-CEX 1
appropriate methodology
Behaviours
Liaises appropriately with other members of a nutrition support team mini-CEX 1,2,3

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Weight loss and Anorexia
To be able to identify, explain and manage patients with significant weight loss and/or anorexia
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the GI and non-GI causes of weight loss and clinical SCE 1
consequences of undernutrition
Lists the features suggestive of an eating disorder SCE 1

Outlines the risks of feeding someone with significant weight loss SCE 1
secondary to poor nutritional intake and how to minimise such risks
Skills
Can take a relevant history and perform an appropriate examination mini-CEX 1
in order to be able to identify the likely cause for anorexia/weight loss
(including psychiatric conditions).
Arranges relevant investigations, interprets results and organises CbD 1
appropriate management plan
Behaviours
Explains and discusses potential causes with patient, especially those mini-CEX 1,3
with non-organic conditions

Obesity
To be aware of the health consequences and different management strategies for obesity and to
be able to identify and manage the complications of such treatments
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the risks associated with obesity SCE 1
Describes interactions in the community which may help in the CbD 1
prevention/early intervention in populations at risk of obesity
Describes the dietary, pharmacological and surgical techniques SCE 1
(including anatomical re-configuration) for managing obesity and their
associated medical and nutritional complications
Skills
Takes a relevant history and perform an appropriate examination in CbD, mini-CEX 1
order to be able to define level of obesity, identify potential
complications and arrange relevant investigations before referral to
an obesity service
Able to interact with community services to help co-ordinate CbD 1
services/provide support
Investigates and appropriately manages (in conjunction with surgical CbD 1,3
and dietetic colleagues) patients admitted with complications from
bariatric surgery
Behaviours
Recognises obesity as an illness and will evaluate and treat the PS 1,2
patient in a sympathetic manner

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Malabsorption and Anaemia
To understand the pathology, and clinical features of malabsorption and anaemia and how to
investigate and manage it
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Defines the pathophysiology of fluid and nutrient malabsorption, SCE 1
including causes, e.g. anatomical and functional short bowel
syndrome, high output stomas, enterocutaneous fistulae and
pancreatic insufficiency
Knows how to investigate patients with malabsorption SCE 1

Describes the clinical consequences of malabsorption, including CbD, SCE 1

malnutrition, fluid and electrolyte disturbance and micronutrient
deficiency and anaemia and how to manage these
Describes all other causes of anaemia, including bone marrow SCE 1
disorders and haemolysis
Describes the metabolism, absorption and bioavailability of iron, B12 SCE 1
and folate and clinical conditions and diets associated with their
deficiency
Skills
Identifies and appropriately investigates clinical features suggestive of CbD, SCE 1
malabsorption
Manages fluid, electrolyte and micronutrient disturbances associated CbD, SCE 1
with short bowel syndrome or high output stomas
Uses the appropriate investigations for the different types of anaemia SCE 1
Behaviours
Takes a careful clinical approach to managing patients with CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
malabsorption and anaemia. Explains plan of management clearly to
patients and their relatives.

Artificial Nutritional Support

To be able to identify and assess patients requiring artificial nutrition support and offer the
appropriate route and monitoring of nutrition support.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the appropriate indications and contraindications for the use of CbD, SCE 1
enteral and parenteral nutrition.
Outlines the different types of enteral and parenteral feeding lines and SCE 1,3
indications for use of each
Describes the principles of perioperative nutritional and fluid SCE 1
management
Lists the risks and complications of all types of artificial nutrition CbD, SCE 1,2,3
support and describe how to minimise these.
Describes the re-feeding syndrome and associated risks and CbD, SCE 1,2,3
management
Describes the role of different members of the nutrition support team CbD 1,2,3
(NST)
Outlines the ethical and legal implications of provision, withdrawal CbD, SCE 1,2,3
and withholding artificial nutrition support

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Skills
Chooses an appropriate bedside, endoscopic or radiological method SCE 1
and route for nutritional support, including different parenteral lines
and gastric vs. post-pyloric tube placement options.
Demonstrates competence in insertion of a naso-jejunal tube and DOPs 1
verification of position
Supervises the use and management of feeding lines and prescribe mini-CEX, MSF 1,3
appropriate intravenous and enteral feeding regimes in conjunction
with dietetic, nursing and pharmacy colleagues in the NST
Monitors patients on artificial nutrition support to avoid the re-feeding CbD, SCE 1
syndrome.
Understands the principles of perioperative nutritional and fluid CbD, SCE 1
management
Determines patient capacity and make appropriate decisions for CbD 1,3
artificial nutritional support
Behaviours
Assesses the different options for nutritional support, explains and PS 1,2,3
then discusses these with the patient and/ or carers/patient advocate,
as appropriate

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

To understand the role of PEG in enteral feeding and be able to competently assess patients in
terms of appropriateness and risks for procedure, as well as being able to insert a PEG tube
safely and supervise follow up care
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the ethical framework and indications for PEG tube CbD, SCE 1,2
insertion
Describes the anatomy of relevant area SCE 1
Identifies different types of gastrostomy tube. mini-CEX 1
Outlines the advantages, disadvantages and complications of PEG CbD, SCE 1
tube insertion
Skills
Identifies and uses appropriately all components of a PEG insertion DOPs 1
kit
Can competently and safely perform insertion of a PEG tube DOPs 1
(including jejunal extension where appropriate), both as an
endoscopist and assistant.
Can assess a patient after a PEG procedure and recognise and CbD, mini-CEX 1
manage potential complications
Behaviours
Considers PEG support in appropriate cases, listen to patient’s and/or CbD, PS 2,3,4
relative’s fears and expectations and discusses these sympathetically

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 e) Hepatology
There is widespread recognition of the increasing burden of liver disease and its
complexity. Cirrhosis is now the fifth most common cause of death in the United
Kingdom, and the only one that is on the increase. The current Health Service has
not been formally organised to deliver a comprehensive hepatology service and
consequently training strategies to date have been fragmented. This situation is
evolving and it is anticipated that future organisation of liver services (see National
Liver plan 2009) will allow the development of better integration of training
opportunities in hepatology.

There is currently a variety of models of service and training in hepatology prevailing

in the UK. Within this three levels of activity can be recognised:

1. Gastroenterologists and some hepatologists who work predominantly in district

general hospitals who manage a significant number of patients with abnormal liver
enzymes, jaundice and sometimes more complex liver disease but who rely on a
regional centre for advice, support and referral pathways (e.g. for viral therapy,
complex procedures such as transjugular liver biopsy or TIPS, and liver cancer
management). For the purposes of training, these could be classified as level 1
centres.

2. Gastroenterologists and some hepatologists in larger centres, often university

hospitals, who provide comprehensive specialist hepatology services which would
include dedicated referral clinics and pathways, services for treatment of viral
hepatitis, work up and shared care arrangements for liver transplantation, and 24
hour services for emergency management of variceal bleeding including specialised
endoscopic and radiological interventions. Some of these centres will be themselves
hepatobiliary and pancreatic (HPB) cancer centres or are affiliated to such centres
with surgical and interventional radiology expertise in liver and biliary disorders. In
such centres, trainees should have access to HPB multi-disciplinary meetings with an
appropriate level of support in radiology and pathology services. For training
purposes, these could be termed level 2 centres.

3. Hepatologists in liver transplant centres where there would be expected to be a

comprehensive range of hepatology services including liver transplantation and liver-
specific or liver-associated intensive care facilities. These are the level 3 centres.

In the course of their training it is anticipated that all gastroenterology trainees would
gain more than six months experience in level 1 centres (and most will spend 12
months) but in order to attain the CCT, all trainees must spend at least six months in
a level 2 or level 3 centre in order to deliver the appropriate concentration of patients
and liver services pertinent to that training.

For advanced training towards sub-specialist certification in hepatology, trainees are

required to spend a further 12 continuous months in one of the posts specifically
approved to offer this module, and during their training at least three months should
be in a level 3 centre described above.

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 Basic Principles
Basic Anatomy, Micro-Anatomy in Liver Physiology
To understand the pathophysiology of liver disease and hepatocellular dysfunction
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the micro-anatomy and physiology of the liver and SCE 1
relates these to disease process and cellular function
Skills
Recognises the spectrum of presentations and is aware of the broad mini-CEX, SCE 1
range of disease processes affecting the liver.
Behaviours
Recognises the importance of a grounding in basic science in order to CbD, SCE 1
practise clinical hepatology.

Clinical Evaluation and Investigation of Liver Disease

To understand the range of symptoms and risk factors for liver disease and its investigation
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the symptoms experienced by patients who have both acute CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3
and chronic liver disease. Recognises the relevant physical signs.
Knows the patterns of abnormality of blood tests, imaging and clinical
pathology
Skills
Evaluates investigations and able to recognise the entire range of mini-CEX, SCE 1
liver disease processes
Behaviours
Shows careful stepwise approach to the prompt and efficient clinical mini-CEX, MSF 1
evaluation of patients with liver disease

Jaundice
To understand jaundice, how it is classified, investigated and severity measured
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the mechanisms of biliary metabolism, the various CbD, SCE 1
abnormalities that lead to hyperbilirubinaemia and knows and
recognises the causes of the various forms of jaundice
Skills
Selects and interprets appropriate investigations and formulate CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
management plans.
Behaviours
Approaches patients presenting with jaundice in a logical and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,3,4
methodical manner

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 Complications of Cirrhosis
Portal Hypertension

Oesophageal Varices: Risk of Haemorrhage

To be able to carry out specialist assessment of patients with chronic liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the risk of variceal bleeding as a complication of with ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
portal hypertension CEX, SCE
Knows risk of variceal haemorrhage in cirrhotics who have not bled ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
CEX, SCE
Knows risk of bleeding related to variceal size, endoscopic findings ACAT, CbD, mini- 1
and severity of liver dysfunction CEX, SCE
Knows range of therapeutic options (both endoscopic and CbD, SCE 1
pharmacological).
Skills
Recognises and can treat portal hypertension. SCE, DOPS 1
Behaviours
Manages patients with oesophageal varices with skill and MSF 1, 3, 4
compassion
Able to convey the serious risks to patients and their relatives MSF 1, 3, 4

Oesophageal Varices: Acute Bleeding

To be able to carry out specialist assessment, resuscitation, diagnosis and treatment of
gastrointestinal bleeding patients with chronic liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Assesses the severity of liver dysfunction and its prognostic SCE 1
significance following haemorrhage.
Knows importance of correcting hypovolaemia, preventing SCE, CbD. ACAT 1
complications of GI bleeding and deterioration of liver function, and
stopping bleeding
Knows the potential use of blood & clotting factors, the role of SCE, CbD. ACAT 1
antibiotics, the use of vasoconstrictors, therapeutic endoscopy, the
indication for transjugular intra-hepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or
surgical shunt surgery
Aware of the specific complications of bleeding in cirrhotic patients – SCE, CbD 1
including hepatic encephalopathy, need for airway protection,
nutrition, identification of alcohol withdrawal.
Skills
Shows proficiency in endoscopy – including emergency endoscopic DOPS 1
techniques of variceal band ligation, endoscopic sclerotherapy,
injection of cyanoacrylate glues for gastric varices
Can place safely and manage a Sengstaken tube in refractory DOPS 1
variceal bleeding.

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Can prevent and treat complications including hepatorenal failure, SCE, CbD 1
ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatic encephalopathy
Behaviours
Appreciates criteria for referral to specialist centre when appropriate – CbD 1
such as with bleeding gastric or ectopic varices, or consideration of
TIPS
Appreciates need to treat patients using a multi–disciplinary approach CbD 1
Shows understanding of an empathic approach which may involve CbD, MSF 1,3,4
long-term lifestyle changes and a need for social support

Variceal Bleeding: Secondary Prophylaxis

To be able to carry out specialist assessment of patients with chronic liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows risks and prognosis of recurrent variceal bleeding in cirrhotic SCE 1
patients.
Aware of role of secondary prophylaxis with either non–selective β- SCE 1
blockers, endoscopic ligation or both
Skills
Can select suitable endoscopic therapy and perform the appropriate DOPS 1,2
procedure competently.
Behaviours
Appreciates the potential role of other specialists e.g. interventional MSF 1
radiologists and nurse specialists

Ascites & Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP)

To be able to carry out specialist assessment and treatment of patients with ascites in chronic
liver disease and its complications
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Defines the causes (both hepatic and non hepatic) of ascites, and SCE 1
has a clear understanding of their pathogenesis.
Recognises how to define resistant and refractory ascites SCE 1
Understands the management of patients with ascites (including fluid SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
restriction, use of colloids, diuretics) as well as the indications for and
the role of interventional procedures such as paracentesis, TIPS
Knows the value of laboratory investigation of acites including SCE, mini-CEX 1,3
diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, its prognosis and
treatment
Appreciates the evidence for the prophylactic use of albumin SCE 1
infusions to reduce risk of hepatorenal syndrome
Understands the indications for alternative interventions (e.g. TIPS, CbD, SCE 1
surgical shunt, peritoneal–venous shunt and transplantation) and the
criteria for appropriate referral
Skills
Can perform safely both diagnostic and large volume paracentesis DOPS 1,2

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Behaviours
Can refer patients in a timely manner to specialist liver services. CbD 1
Understand the implications on quality of life, as well as the nutritional CbD 1
impact of resistant ascites
Shows ability to develop and sustain supportive relationships with MSF 1,3,4
patients and their families.

Hepatorenal Syndrome
To be able to carry out specialist assessment and diagnosis of renal impairment / dysfunction in
patients with chronic liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Can define the different types (I and II) of hepatorenal SCE 1
syndrome(HRS)
Knows the differential diagnosis of different types of renal SCE, CbD 1
failure/impairment in liver disease
Understands the major and minor criteria in diagnosis of HRS and be SCE, CbD 1
able to differentiate between HRS and acute kidney injury.
Appreciates the prognostic significance of renal impairment in SCE, CbD 1
patients with chronic liver disease
Knows the options for management and treatment of HRS, the role of SCE, CbD 1
colloids and vasoconstrictors as well as renal supportive treatment by
dialysis
Skills
Uses and interprets result of sometimes complex investigations SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
appropriately
Behaviours
Can judge when to involve other specialists especially nephrologists, CbD, MSF 1,3,4
radiologists and intensivists.

Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE)

To be able to carry out specialist assessment of altered consciousness in the patient with
chronic liver disease
To be able to differentiate between acute and acute on chronic liver injury
Encephalopathy indicated liver failure, and should prompt consideration for liver transplantation
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). SCE 1
Knows the differential diagnosis of HE including the existence of risk SCE, CbD 1
factors for its causation, including metabolic disorders and intracranial
structural disorders (such as subdural haematomas)
Knows factors that may precipitate HE including bleeding, electrolyte SCE, CbD 1
disturbance, drugs or other organ failure.
Knows the various treatment options appropriate for grade of severity SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Skills

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Can grade the mental state (Glasgow coma score and West Haven SCE, mini-CEX 1
Criteria)
Shows ability to differentiate between acute and acute on chronic liver SCE, CbD 1
injury
Can identify the patient at risk of raised intracranial pressure and CbD, SCE 1
cerebral oedema
Selects and use investigations appropriately and determine timing of SCE, CbD 1
airway protection
Behaviours
Appreciates the role of other specialists, and interacts in a MSF 1,3,4
professional manner with intensivists, neurologists,
neurophysiologists, radiologists and other specialists.
Makes referral where appropriate to specialist centre for liver CbD 1,3
transplantation

Sepsis
The recognition of sepsis, its significance and prognosis in liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises the importance of sepsis as a complication. SCE 1
Aware of the differential diagnosis and management of sepsis and its SCE, CbD 1
possible sequelae
Knows the appropriate use of the appropriate antibiotics and their SCE, CbD 1
complications. Aware of prevention of nosocomial infection
Skills
Understands the principles and practice of diagnosis and treatment of SCE, CbD 1
sepsis
Behaviours
Prepared to involve and liaise with specialist sepsis support MSF 1.3.4

Nutrition
To be able to make an objective assessment of nutritional status in the patient with liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the importance of clinical nutrition and its disturbances in SCE, CbD 1
patients with acute and chronic liver disease
Appreciates indications for enteral or parenteral support and SCE, CbD 1
understanding of limitations of these interventions
Skills
Shows ability to make careful nutritional assessment. mini-CEX, DOPS 1
Behaviours
Can liaise with nutritional support team where appropriate MSF 1

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 Evaluation of Compound Severity of Liver Disease
Assessment of prognosis in chronic liver disease, specific liver diseases and in specific
scenarios e.g. perioperative risk
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands prognostic scoring systems including Child - Pugh, SCE, CbD 1
MELD, UKELD, Maddrey and disease-specific scoring systems where
they exist
Skills
Builds the use of accredited quantitative scoring systems into routine SCE, mini-CEX 1
clinical liver practice, clinical colleagues and junior staff
Behaviours
Shows consistent application of evidence-based assessment in the CbD, MSF 1
evaluation of liver disease and the determination of prognosis

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 Specific Diseases
Acute Liver Disease
To recognise acute and acute on chronic liver disease. To understand the causes and differential
diagnosis of acute hepatitis and chronic liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the causes of acute hepatitis including viral, drug- SCE 1
induced, alcohol-induced and auto-immune liver disease
Knows the appropriate plan of investigation and management of SCE, CbD 1
specific diseases including the role of serological investigations and
liver biopsy.
Skills
Takes an accurate history from patients with acute liver disease, and mini-CEX 1
performs detailed clinical examination.
Utilises investigation in a structured manner. SCE CbD 1
Behaviours
Considers all therapeutic modalities and preparedness to refer to CbD 1,3
specialist centre where diagnosis remains in doubt or appropriate
management cannot be performed

Alcohol and the Liver

To be able to carry out specialist assessment of alcohol related liver disease and help co-
ordinate/deliver out-of-hospital support services, this should include:
 Social, epidemiology and socio-economic factors
 Awareness of resources available/needed to help both reduce the burden of disease and deal
with alcohol related disease in the community with practical experience where possible
 Management of acute alcoholic hepatitis and decompensated liver disease with associated
complications
 Alcohol withdrawal syndromes, Wernicke’s encephalopathy
 Psychological dependence on alcohol and relevance to long term management
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises the rising incidence of acute and chronic liver disease in SCE, CbD 1
the UK related alcohol abuse and, in particular, the increasing alcohol
consumption in adolescents, young adults, women and growth in
obesity.
Is aware of the importance of community alcohol services and CbD 1
education in reducing the incidence and burden of alcohol related
disease
Recognises alcoholic hepatitis, and understands the prognostic SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
scores determined by Maddrey’s discriminant function, the Glasgow
alcoholic hepatitis score and their role in identifying which patients
may benefit from corticosteroids. Can treat alcohol withdrawal.
Aware of appropriate use of benzodiazepines in alcohol withdrawal CbD 1
and can recognise the early signs of delirium tremens
Skills

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Is able to take a relevant history and perform appropriate examination mini-CEX, CbD 1
Is able to work in a community environment and provide support to mini-CEX 1
Allied Health Professionals in the prevention / management of alcohol
related disease
Recognises those patients who would benefit from corticosteroids SCE, CbD 1
instituting treatment and has awareness of indications for withdrawing
their use
Aware of the potential complications of alcoholic hepatitis, chronic SCE 1
liver disease and able to prevent or intervene where appropriate
Behaviours
Appreciates the role of other specialists, nurse specialists, CbD 1,3,4
intensivists, radiologists, dieticians, psychiatrists and addiction
specialist
Communicates effectively with at risk populations patients, their mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
relatives in the context of their disease , its severity, prognosis and
substance abuse
Identifies the abstinent alcoholic who would benefit from mini-CEX, CbD 1
transplantation
Considers all therapeutic modalities and preparedness to refer to mini-CEX, CbD 1
specialist centre where diagnosis remains in doubt or appropriate
management cannot be performed as per national guidelines

Viral Hepatitis
To be aware of hepatitis C & B, those individuals at risk and the principles of treatment
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the serological interpretation, categorisation and SCE 1
investigation of patients with chronic hepatitis B and/or C with
particular emphasis on the need for treatment and surveillance
Recognises the particular populations at risk SCE 1
Aware of national and international agreed guidelines on viral SCE 1
hepatitis management and use of interferon and antiviral drugs
Aware of hepatitis B reactivation in the context of immunosuppression mini-CEX, CbD 1
Skills
Uses appropriate diagnostic modalities including serology, mini-CEX, CbD 1
genotyping, viral load measurements, liver biopsy and related
investigations
Monitors anti-viral and immunomodulatory therapies with appropriate SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
investigations
Behaviours
Communicates effectively with patients and relatives in the context of mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
viral liver disease and underlying social and psychological risk factors
Marshals multi-disciplinary support networks and in particular, MSF 1,3,4
recognise the crucial role of nurse practitioners in disease
management

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 Auto-Immune Liver Disease, Including Auto-Immune Hepatitis, PBC,
PSC and Overlap Syndromes
To understand the importance of diagnosis and treatments for autoimmune liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises and appropriately investigates patients with auto-immune SCE 1
liver diseases
Aware of management and complications of autoimmune liver SCE 1
disease including extra-hepatic manifestations and associations
including malignant complications in PSC
Skills
Appreciates and understands that this range of liver disease is CbD 1
frequently under-diagnosed and may have been inappropriately
managed
Selects appropriate immunomodulatory therapy, has awareness of mini-CEX, CbD 1
side effects, and may well require specialist care.
Behaviours
Responds urgently to the management challenge of these severe and CbD 1
often acute diseases and involves more specialist services where
required

Metabolic Liver Disease

To be aware of the prevalence, assess severity and select which patients with non–alcoholic
fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may develop progressive disease. To be able to investigate,
diagnose, and treat patients and family members with heavy metal associated liver disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Haemochromatosis and Wilson Disease:
Recognises the importance but also difficulty in diagnosing heavy SCE 1
metal associated liver disease; has an understanding of the variants
of both conditions
Understands the management of these diseases, including both SCE, CbD 1
screening and follow-up of siblings; identifies possible need for
genetic counselling.
Fat-Related Liver Disease:
Understands the prevalence of abnormal liver function tests in the SCE 1
context of fat associated liver disease
Recognises the associated metabolic syndrome SCE, CbD 1
Assesses the severity of fibrosis including the role of non-invasive SCE, CbD 1
diagnostic techniques and indications for liver biopsy
Knows the importance in treatment of modifying lifestyle factors and mini-CEX 1,3
potential for surgical and non-surgical interventions (in the setting of
morbid obesity) in the prevention and progression of liver disease
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency:
Knows the methods of diagnosis and implications of this condition SCE 1
and its associated co-morbidities

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Skills
Maintains diagnostic vigilance as uncommon metabolic liver diseases SCE, CbD 1
may go unrecognised and so retains awareness of them as
diagnostic possibilities.
Behaviours
Recognises the potential need to screen relatives and keeps up to SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3,4
date with contemporary developments of screening protocols MSF
Liaises with clinical genetic unit where appropriate SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3,4
MSF
Manages patients with steatohepatitis clearly and always SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3,4
sympathetically MSF

Drug-Induced Liver Disease

To recognise drug induced liver injury (DILI), its severity and management
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises and knows how to diagnose acute and chronic drug SCE 1,2
induced liver injury and dysfunction
Aware of methods of diagnosis, role of liver biopsy and therapy SCE, CbD 1
including role of steroids in treatment in selected cases
Skills
Understands the role of both prescription and recreational drugs and SCE, CbD 1,2,3
the aetiology of a wide variety of liver disease and dysfunction often
requiring prompt intervention or involvement of specialist services
Has awareness of the range of iatrogenic liver dysfunction SCE, CbD 1,2,3
Behaviours
Able to interact with specialist pharmacy services. Can use yellow MSF 1,2,3
card reporting system of potential adverse effects of drugs.

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 f) Pancreatic and Biliary Disorders
Gallbladder Disease
To understand the formation of gallstones, the complications to which they give rise and the
means by which they are managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the physiology and biochemistry of bile and the pathogenesis SCE 1
of gallstones
Is familiar with the normal anatomy and the anatomical variations of SCE 1
the biliary tree
Recognises the symptoms and signs of the potential complications of SCE, CbD 1
gallstone disease including biliary colic, acute cholecystitis, jaundice
due to calculous bile duct obstruction, cholangitis, and carcinoma.
Knows the various techniques of diagnostic imaging including SCE, CbD 1,3
ultrasound, CT, MRI, ERCP,EUS, radionuclide techniques
Knows the various treatment options, the indications for operative and SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
non-operative management and the risks of each
Knows the current national guidelines for use of ERCP and the risks SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
of the technique
Knows the ways in which gallbladder polyps are diagnosed and SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
managed.
Knows that gallbladder and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) may SCE, CbD 1
account for otherwise unexplained abdominal pain
Recognises different types of SOD, how they may present and how SCE, CbD 1
they are investigated
Skills
Can select the most appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,2,3
techniques for each clinical situation
Recognises possibility of diagnostic uncertainty in biliary dysmotility SCE, CbD 1,2,4
and shows thoughtful judgement in each individual situation
Behaviours
Makes appropriate assessment, stratifies urgency and plans mini-CEX 1,3
management of patients who have complications of gallstones

Acute Pancreatitis
To learn to make an early accurate diagnosis, stratify risk and plan management of patients with
acute pancreatitis.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the aetiology of acute pancreatitis Understands the means by SCE, CbD 1
which the condition is diagnosed
Is aware of the risk stratification and prognostic scoring systems such SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
as Glasgow and Ranson; can apply this assessment to the
management plan for individual patients.
Knows the complications of severe attacks and the indications for SCE, CbD 1,3
intervention.

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Knows how to initiate investigation of patients with recurrent SCE, CbD 1,3
unexplained attacks of pancreatitis.
Skills
Shows ability to make early risk stratification and involve multi- SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
disciplinary team and/or intensive care staff when appropriate
Behaviours
Collaborates closely with radiological and surgical colleagues where CbD, MSF 1,3,4
appropriate
Transfers patient to a specialist centre in accordance with guidelines CbD, MSF 1,3,4

Chronic Pancreatitis
To recognise the presentation of chronic pancreatitis and learn how the disease is managed.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the causes, presentation, investigation and SCE, CbD 1
management of chronic pancreatitis
Knows the potential value of the various imaging modalities. SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
Recognises the potential of blood and stool tests.
Aware of the exocrine and endocrine consequences of the condition. SCE, CbD 1,2,3
Recognises complications.
Knows the value of endoscopic , non-invasive (ESWL) and surgical SCE, CbD 1,3
intervention
Skills
Can diagnose the condition promptly mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
Knows possible avenues of treatment, both to treat the consequences mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
of pancreatic insufficiency and to control pain where appropriate
Can recognise complications CbD 1
Behaviours
Works within multi-disciplinary team and liaises with colleagues in MSF 1,2,3,4
pain management
Shows empathy with patient and relatives PS, mini-CEX 1,3,4

Pancreatic Tumours
To learn the presentation and multi-disciplinary management of patients with pancreatic tumours
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the presentation, investigation and staging of pancreatic SCE 1
cancer.
Recognises the importance of considering, and being able to identify, SCE, CbD 1
uncommon pancreatic tumours (such as neuroendocrine or
intrapapillary mucinous tumours).
Knows the range of potential therapies and recognises the factors SCE 1
that make such tumours potentially operable or inoperable
Knows the prevalence and natural history of benign cysts/serous SCE 1
cystadenoma and potentially malignant cystic lesions

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Knows the options for palliative treatment. SCE, CbD 1,3
Skills
Shows ability to sequence investigations appropriately mini-CEX, CbD, MSF 1,3
Understands value of multi-disciplinary team mini-CEX, CbD, MSF 1,3
Recognises the importance of considering possibility that the tumour mini-CEX, CbD, MSF 1,3
is unusual
Behaviours
Communicates effectively within the multi-disciplinary team and with mini-CEX, CbD, 1,3,4
the patient and their family. MSF, PS

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 g) Endoscopy
Foundations of Good Practice
To ensure a safe foundation is established in common theory and practise for
endoscopy

Patient-Centred Practice
To establish a firm foundation of patient centred practice in endoscopy with emphasis on
consent and communication.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Consent: SCE, DOPS 1,2
 Describes the components and legal aspects of informed
consent
 Lists specific issues for special considerations e.g. Jehovah’s
Witnesses, PEG tube insertion, withdrawal of consent and
The Mental capacity and Mental Health Act
Patient comfort: SCE, CbD 1,2
 Lists features of formal Comfort Scores and Quality
Standards
Communication: SCE, CbD 1,2
 Outlines key features of excellent communications with
patients, support staff, referring practitioners and managers
 Describes communication framework for “breaking bad news”
 Lists the benefits of patient feedback to the service for quality
assurance
Skills
Demonstrates skill in taking consent, discussing results with patients DOPS, MSF, mini- 1,3
and breaking bad news. CEX
Demonstrates good communication skills, including difficult situations DOPS, MSF, mini- 1,3
and breaking bad news CEX
Behaviours
Demonstrates working practices that support effective and efficient MSF, PS 1
service delivery
Demonstrates empathy with patients and support staff MSF, PS 1
Maintain patients’ dignity and privacy during procedures and sedation MSF, PS 1
Practice is informed by review of comfort scores and quality standard MSF, PS 1
adherence

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Appropriateness
To demonstrate KSB in the appropriateness of endoscopy and risk management
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Risks of endoscopy:
 Lists the risks of sedation and procedures, and of possible SCE, CbD 1,2
alternative interventions
ASA status:
 Describes the processes of formally assessing patient risk SCE, CbD 1
using pre-assessment clinics
 Lists the special risks of co morbidities such as diabetes, SCE, CbD 1
anticoagulation antibiotic prophylaxis etc
Skills
Demonstrates safe practice DOPS, MSF 1,3
Behaviours
Demonstrates that practice adheres to guidelines on indications Audit, MSF. 1

Endoscope Design
To demonstrate knowledge and understanding of instrument design and function.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the structure, functions and controls of endoscopes, the SCE, DOPS. 1,2
associated processing and imaging equipment.
Skills
Demonstrates basic practical handling skills with understanding of DOPS, MSF 1,3
scope function
Behaviours
Shows willingness to learn endoscope function DOPS, MSF. 1

Safety
To ensure knowledge of the principles and details of safe endoscopy practice.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Lists the requirements for and techniques used in the SCE 1,2
decontamination of endoscopes and their accessories
Outlines the quality assurance of decontamination and the principles SCE 1,2
of appropriate unit design
Safe sedation: SCE 1
 Describes the pharmacology of frequently used drugs in
endoscopy and the monitoring of sedated patients
Diathermy: SCE 1
 Knows and understands the principles of diathermy, the
associated risks and the detail of its application in endoscopy

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 practice
Complications of Endoscopy: SCE 1
 Lists the procedure related risks of endoscopy, their
incidence, minimisation, and the management of early and
late complications
Skills
Demonstrates safe practice in endoscopy, sedation and related DOPS, MSF 1,3
procedures. Demonstrates knowledge of risks and their management.
Behaviours
Practises endoscopy safely with care and consideration DOPS, MSF 1

Quality
To ensure knowledge of the principles of quality assurance in endoscopy and its measurement.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Quality assurance in endoscopy: SCE 1,2
 Describes methods of measuring quality in endoscopy,
reporting systems, and the performance of endoscopists
Describes the quality assurance processes in endoscopy units, SCE 1
service improvement methods, assessment of quality and the Global
Reporting Scale (GRS) as used by Joint Advisory Group on
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG) in accrediting units for teaching

Lists the features of effective audit and its use as a QA tool Audit, SCE 1
Skills
Demonstrates use of electronic reporting systems and their use in DOPS, MSF 1,3
audit of practise
Behaviours
Participates fully in QA processes Audit, MSF 1

Unit Management
To understand the importance of good general management in delivering high quality
endoscopy.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the role of endoscopists in the management of units in SCE 1,2
association with nurse and general managers
Outlines administrative and management systems SCE 1,2
Recalls cancer management pathways, the principles and practice of SCE 1,2
cancer surveillance and screening
Describes the high level principles of budget management SCE 1,2
Knows the ethical and quality aspects relating to management and SCE 1,2
leadership including approaches to use of resources, and approaches
to involving the public and patients in making decisions
Understands management principles in assessing the equipment SCE 1,2
needs in terms of planned replacement of equipment, service
development so as to ensure the endoscopy unit is both modern and

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efficient
Aware of the administrative structure and financing of the endoscopy SCE 1,2
unit within the context of the management structure of the trust
Demonstrates knowledge of risk management issues, including SCE, 1,2
potential areas of risk
Skills
Performs regular audits of own and department’s quality and Audit, MSF 1,3
contribute to department’s management
Behaviours
Participates fully in quality management initiatives in endoscopy MSF 1
services
Uses resources efficiently on a personal level MSF 1

Diagnostic Upper Gastro-Intestinal Endoscopy (Mandatory)

To demonstrate appreciation of the appropriateness of case selection and the ability to perform
upper GI endoscopy.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Outlines the anatomy and pathology of the upper gastro-intestinal SCE, CbD 1
tract and its relevance to the practice of endoscopy
Describe the indications, contra-indications, risks, complications and SCE, CbD 1
alternatives to upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy, and the implications
for consent
Describes the principles of case selection and timing of endoscopy SCE, CbD 1
Describes the relevant specific pathology of the upper g-i tract SCE 1
Skills
Performs pre-procedure checks, appropriate application of local DOPS 1
anaesthetic, give appropriate sedation and monitor patients during
endoscopy
Is able to handle and manipulate the controls and shaft of the DOPS 2
endoscope to maintain optimal luminal view during the procedure
Recognises lesions and manage appropriately DOPS 1
Demonstrates accurate recording of the procedure and preparation of DOPS 1
reports manually and electronically
Undertakes effective discussion of the results of the examination with mini-CEX 1,3
the patients and relatives including breaking bad news
Behaviours
Demonstrates judgement in case selection and management DOPS, CbD, MSF 1
Demonstrates appropriate safe technique and judgement in case DOPS 1,2
handling
Demonstrates good communication with patient and support staff DOPS 1,3
during the procedure

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Basic Colonoscopy (optional)
To ensure a sound theoretical and practical foundation for full independent practice in basic
diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the anatomy of the colon as it relates to colonoscopy SCE 1,2
Describes the relevant specific pathology of the colon SCE 1
Describes the indications, contra-indications, risks, complications and CbD, SCE 1
alternatives to colonoscopy, and the implications for consent
Describes the principles of case selection and timing of colonoscopy mini-CEX, SCE 1
Lists the range of bowel preparations and their benefits and co- mini-CEX, SCE 1
morbidity associated risks
Outlines the specific properties of colonoscopes including image mini-CEX, SCE 1
enhancing optical variations and scope guidance systems
Demonstrates knowledge of shaft stiffness and its relevance to torque mini-CEX, SCE 1
steering in the management of colonic loops
Outlines the importance of quality standards in colonoscopy and mini-CEX, SCE 1
colonoscopy units
Skills
Performs pre-procedure checks, appropriate application of local DOPS, MSF 1,3
anaesthetic, give appropriate sedation and monitor patients
Demonstrates endoscope handling with appropriate insertion DOPS, MSF 1,3
techniques, accurate control, mucosal visualisation, pathology
recognition, terminal-ileal intubation and biopsy technique
Demonstrates basic polypectomy technique with accurate accessory DOPS, MSF 1,3
handling, tattoo techniques, appropriate application of diathermy and
the management of complications
Demonstrates ability to prepare appropriate reports and discuss DOPS, MSF 1,3
examination findings with patients and their relatives including
breaking bad news
Behaviours
Demonstrates clinical judgement in patient selection and MSF, PS 1
management with empathy and good communication
Demonstrates team leadership with assistants and nurses to ensure MSF 1,3
safe practise
Practises within the limits of competence MSF 1,2

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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (optional)
To ensure a sound theoretical and practical foundation for full independent practice in basic
diagnostic and therapeutic flexible sigmoidoscopy
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Describes the anatomy of the colon as it relates to flexible SCE 1,2
sigmoidoscopy
Describes the relevant specific pathology of the colon SCE 1
Describes the indications, contra-indications, risks, complications and SCE 1
alternatives to flexible sigmoidoscopy, and the implications for
consent
Describes the principles of case selection and timing of flexible mini-CEX, SCE 1
sigmoidoscopy
Describes standard bowel preparation SCE 1
Outlines the specific properties of colonoscopes including image DOPS 1
enhancing optical variations and scope guidance systems
Demonstrates knowledge of shaft stiffness and its relevance to torque DOPS 1
steering in the management of colonic loops
Outlines the importance of quality standards in flexible sigmoidoscopy CbD 1
Skills
Performs pre-procedure checks, appropriate application of local DOPS, MSF 1,3
anaesthetic, give appropriate sedation and monitor patients
Demonstrates endoscope handling with appropriate insertion DOPS, MSF 1,3
techniques, accurate control, mucosal visualisation, pathology
recognition, intubation to splenic flexure and biopsy technique
Demonstrates basic polypectomy technique with accurate accessory DOPS, MSF 1,3
handling, tattoo techniques, appropriate application of diathermy and
the management of complications
Demonstrates ability to prepare appropriate reports and discuss DOPS, MSF 1,3
examination findings with patients and their relatives including
breaking bad news
Behaviours
Demonstrates clinical judgement in patient selection and MSF 1
management with empathy and good communication
Demonstrates team leadership with assistants and nurses to ensure MSF 1,3
safe practise
Practises within the limits of competence MSF 1,2

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 3. Advanced Specialist Areas
a) Advanced Hepatology

In order to receive a sub-specialty certificate in hepatology, the trainee must spend a

total of two years of the programme in training in liver disease. All of the training must
be completed within the time constraints of the training programme (4 or 5 years
depending on whether or not the trainee will also be seeking certification in general
internal medicine). One year of the programme must be spent at one (or more) of the
recognised level 3 specialist centres and the trainee will be appointed by a
competitive application process. Ideally all of the training should occur within level 2
or level 3 centres but if this is not possible, a maximum of six months may be spent in
a level 1 centre.

Inevitably there will be some overlap with earlier training but this should be seen as
consolidation of the training in that first year. In addition to the exposure to a greater
breadth and depth of knowledge of liver disease and the management of complex
liver disease, trainees would be expected to gain additional skill sets.

For these specific procedures, trainees would be expected to have a sound

understanding of the indications, complications, nature and performance of these
procedures and in some cases would be personally skilled in the performance of
these procedures, depending upon the nature of the specific training site. These
would include: ultrasound and ultrasound guided liver biopsy, contrast enhanced
ultrasonography (CEUS), transjugular liver biopsy, portal pressure measurements,
ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound (application to both biliary disease and portal
hypertension). Advanced management of chronic liver disease including TIPS,
interface with HDU and ICU, and in some situations artificial liver support.

It is common for patients with liver disease to spend time in intensive care (ICU)
settings. ICU is an integrated part of the care pathway for patients with acute liver
failure and those undergoing liver transplantation. It is accepted practice for all
patients with acute liver failure to be referred to units offering specialist liver ICU
expertise. ICU also plays a role in the management of patients with acute
exacerbations of chronic liver disease such as those with encephalopathy, variceal
bleeding, sepsis and hepatorenal dysfunction. All gastroenterologists with an interest
in hepatology should be familiar with the indications for transfer to ICU settings and
have an understanding of the outcomes. They should also advocate for patients with
liver disease when access to ICU is competitive within an institution. They should
also understand which patients would benefit from transfer to specialist liver ICU
units. This is particularly true for acute liver failure.

The trainee would be expected to gain the requisite experience by spending either a
period of one month in a dedicated ICU setting or more commonly in a unit that
regularly admits patients with liver disease to an ICU setting providing specific
expertise in liver disease.

Liver transplantation is integrated into the management plans for both acute and
chronic liver failure, selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, metabolic
disease and a range of unusual indications. Two levels of familiarity with liver
transplantation will be required for gastroenterologists working outside liver transplant

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013)

 units. The basic level will deliver an understanding of the role of liver transplantation
in the management of patients with liver disease as well as basic understanding of
acute intervention required in liver transplant recipients. The higher level will deliver a
skill set to contribute to the integrated care pathways with the liver transplant centres.

All gastroenterologists must be familiar with the indications for liver transplantation
and the appropriate times to refer patients for assessment. The indications for
elective transplantation are now agreed nationally and have been published.
Familiarity with the UKELD system and recognised exceptions is pertinent. The same
is true for emergency transplantation (for acute liver failure) but in these cases the
decision making is often urgent and occurs outside normal working hours. All
gastroenterologists need to understand the limitations of transplantation.

A basic understanding of the acute medical needs of a liver transplant recipient is

also required by all gastroenterologists. The immediate actions and investigative
pathways for presentations such as fever or jaundice need to be understood. After
successful liver transplantation, an increasing part of the follow-up will be undertaken
outside liver transplant centres. This will require an understanding of the evaluation
of liver function tests on a time dependent basis after liver transplantation. There will
also be a need to understand immunosuppression regimens and the monitoring of
individual drugs. It is also important to have an understanding of recurrent diseases
and in some cases this may involve participation in treatment strategies e.g. hepatitis
B or hepatitis C.

Liver Transplantation
To appreciate to role of liver transplantation in the management of both chronic and acute liver
disease and the management, complications of immunosuppression
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the indications for liver transplantation, appropriate timing of SCE, CbD 1
referral for assessment, and outcomes after transplantation
Understands the long-term management of liver transplant recipients SCE, CbD 1
including complications of immunosuppression and management of
recurrent disease
Skills
Can identify potential candidates for liver transplantation, as well as SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
demonstrating an understanding of why patients with end-stage liver
disease are not appropriate candidates for liver transplantation
Has detailed understanding of the transplant assessment process will SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
be required while training in specialist units and their satellites
Behaviours
Displays confidence that they can identify all potential candidates for mini-CEX 1
liver transplantation, refer at the appropriate time and contribute to
life-long follow-up of liver recipients.

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 Acute Liver Failure
The recognition, investigation, both ward based and ICU management, early identification of
patients that would benefit from transplantation and timing of referral/transfer to specialist unit
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the causes and pathophysiology of acute liver failure SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Can plan appropriate investigation, evaluate prognosis and construct SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
a detailed management plan
Identifies those potentially suitable for emergency liver transplantation SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Skills
Develops ability to make accurate evaluation of patients with liver SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
failure at the stage of initial presentation
Can deliver management plan, appropriately evaluate changes in SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
patient’s condition and react accordingly
Utilises the range of medical interventions necessary to support SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
critically ill patients
Behaviours
Demonstrates ability to identify patients at risk of developing acute CbD, MSF 1,3,4
liver failure and understand the criteria for referral to specialist centres
Works collaboratively with nurses and all ITU staff as well as MSF 1,3
colleagues in other clinical disciplines to deliver the highest standard
of clinical care
Communicates effectively and relates with empathy to family and mini-CEX, PS 1,3
close friends of patients

Hepatitis C
To be able to assess patients with acute and chronic hepatitis C infection and determine
suitability for treatment and further management
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Can identify the rare cases of acute hepatitis C SCE 1
Can define chronic hepatitis C and can describe its natural history SCE 1
and prognosis
Appreciates the absolute and relative contra-indications to SCE, CbD 1
combination therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin and
understands the contribution of genotype and viral load to therapy
Knows the predictable adverse effects of therapy and has an SCE, CbD 1
awareness of the unpredictable effects
Can describe a programme of appropriate surveillance for patients SCE, CbD 1
with oesophageal varices and hepatocellular carcinoma
Identifies patients who are appropriate candidates for liver transplant CbD 1
assessment
Skills
Able to take a relevant history and organise appropriate investigations mini-CEX, CbD 1
Appropriate awareness of psycho-social situation and referral to CbD, 1,3,4

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psychiatric services
Selects appropriate monitoring to assess response to therapy SCE, CbD 1
Able to identify which supportive measures to manage adverse SCE, CbD 1
affects appropriately including selection of dose reduction, growth
factors and anti-depressants
Can select appropriate imaging techniques for evaluation of abnormal SCE 1
results
Behaviours
Appreciates the social stigma attached to hepatitis C and the mini-CEX, CbD 1,2,3,4
psychosocial problems often encountered in considering therapy
Has the ability to educate patients and close contacts/families about mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,3.4
their condition and the implications of having chronic viral liver
disease.
Appreciates the input of voluntary organisations and substance mini-CEX 1,3
misuse groups/specialists.
Appreciates the importance of liaison psychiatry and treatment nurses mini-CEX, MSF 1,3
in the management of this group of patients.

Hepatitis B
To assess patients with acute and chronic hepatitis B infection and determine requirement for
treatment and appropriate long term management
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Identifies patients with acute hepatitis B and can ascertain the SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
severity of their illness
Defines the different phases of chronic hepatitis B infection with a SCE, CbD 1
clear understanding of serological results
Appreciates risks of transmission to close contacts CbD 1
Has awareness of indications for therapy in both HBeAg positive and SCE, CbD 1
negative hepatitis and the potential influence of genotype on choice of
therapy
Identifies patients where prophylaxis is required to prevent SCE, CbD 1
reactivation and vertical transmission
Can determine an appropriate surveillance programme for those SCE, CbD 1
patients with varices and/or hepatocellular carcinoma
Identifies patients who are appropriate candidates for liver transplant CbD 1
assessment
Skills
Demonstrates ability to take a relevant history, perform examination mini-CEX 1
and organise appropriate investigations
Able to advise risks of viral transmission mini-CEX 1
Interprets results of blood tests for hepatitis B antigen and antibody. mini-CEX, CbD 1
Appreciates when liver biopsy is appropriate. SCE, CbD 1
Be able to select the most appropriate treatment and how to monitor SCE, CbD 1
patient response
Able to select appropriate imaging techniques for evaluation of SCE, CbD 1

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abnormal results.
Behaviours
Appreciates the cultural differences in the ethnic populations infected CbD, mini-CEX, 1,2,3,4
and the influence this may have on screening MSF, PS
Provides advice and education to families and shows appreciation of mini-CEX 1,3
the potential difficulties that may arise
Understands the importance of cooperation with virologists and staff CbD, MSF 1,3
in other clinical laboratories

Complications of Cholestatic Liver Disease

To be able to carry out specialist assessment, investigate, diagnose, initiate treatment of
patients with cholestatic liver disease (e.g. PBC, PSC) and exclude large duct obstruction
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Shows recognition of the potential complications of cholestasis: SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
including: pruritus, osteoporosis, fatigue, fat malabsorption
Aware of the investigations and treatment of each complication SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Knows the therapeutic options and potential complications of SCE, CbD 1
ursodeoxycholic acid, colestyramine, rifampicin and naltrexone
Able to assess individual patients concerning the timing of potential CbD 1
transplantation
Knows how to use of calcium, vitamin D and biphosphonates in CbD 1
chronic liver disease.
Aware of how to monitor treatment regimes for osteoporosis CbD 1
Skills
Can take a relevant history and perform appropriate investigation mini-CEX 1
Is aware and can act on the potential complications of cholestasis SCE, CbD 1
Selects and use investigations appropriately (specifically in PSC,) to SCE, CbD 1
be aware of possible inflammatory bowel disease and regimes for
colonoscopic surveillance
Behaviours
Ensures the patient understands the importance of prevention of mini-CEX, PS 1,3,4
complications, such as fracture risk in osteoporosis
Empathises with patients who have sometimes intractable symptoms mini-CEX, PS 1,3,4
such as pruritus

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 Vascular Liver Disease
To be able to carry out specialist assessment of vascular disease of the liver appreciating the
risks and benefit of anticoagulation
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Recognises and shows understanding of vascular liver disease SCE, CbD 1
including Budd-Chiari syndrome, veno-occlusive disease and
portomesenteric venous thrombosis; understands the underlying
anatomy and physiology of these often complex conditions
Aware of need for investigation for associated myeloproliferative and SCE, CbD 1
procoagulant conditions.
Understands the role of anticoagulation and indications for further SCE, CbD 1
intervention including TIPS, surgery or transplantation
Skills
Can make careful clinical assessment of these conditions and has mini-CEX, CbD 1
heightened awareness of liver vascular disease in differential
diagnosis.
Able to make a potentially difficult diagnosis of less common variants CbD 1
of vascular conditions
Behaviours
Shows ability to keep patient and relatives informed and to refer MSF, PS 2,3,4
appropriately for specialist management.

Pregnancy-Associated Liver Disease

To recognise the spectrum of liver diseases of pregnancy with respect to the stage of pregnancy
and the timing of obstetric intervention
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the range of potentially serious liver diseases that can SCE, CbD 1,2,3
complicate pregnancy
Knows the various manifestations of pregnancy-associated liver SCE, CbD 1,2,3
disease including obstetric cholestasis and is aware of the urgency of
such situations.
Knows how to manage the more severe pregnancy-associated liver SCE, CbD 1,2,3
diseases including eclampsia and acute fatty liver of pregnancy
Aware of importance of close liaison with obstetric colleagues over SCE, CbD 1,2,3
the timing of delivery
Skills
Is aware that, more than with any other aspect of liver disease, the mini-CEX, CbD 1
optimum management of these diseases requires acute clinical
acumen
Shows the ability to liaise and respond urgently to what is often CbD 1
rapidly escalating severity
Behaviours
Liaises closely and effectively with obstetric colleagues MSF 1,2,3,4
Communicates effectively with concerned patients and relatives MSF 1,2,3,4

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about the needs of the foetus and the overriding need to preserve the
health of the mother

Benign Liver Tumours

Imaging methods, role of biopsy and oral contraceptive agents in hepatic adenomas
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the epidemiology, pathology, clinical presentation and natural SCE 1
history of benign tumours of the liver
Can define a programme of investigation and characterisation of SCE 1
benign liver lesions including haemangioma, focal modular
hyperplasia and adenoma
Skills
Demonstrates ability to make an appropriate differential diagnosis SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Formulates appropriate plan of management.
Behaviours
Recognises importance of the role of multidisciplinary team in CbD, MSF 1,3,4
diagnosis and management

Malignant Liver Tumours, Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

Importance of HCC screening in cirrhosis, diagnosis and treatment
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the epidemiology, risk factors, pathology, prevalence SCE 1
and range of presentations of HCC
Knows the appropriate investigation and staging of the disease SCE, CbD 1
Aware of treatment options including trans-arterial SCE, CbD 1
chemoembolisation (TACE), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), local
ethanol injection
Appreciates the indications and contraindications of each and how SCE, CbD 1
the most appropriate is selected. Aware of surgical treatment options
Aware of role of surveillance and referral for specialist multi- SCE, CbD 1
disciplinary management including liaison with oncology
Skills
Appreciates the indications and contraindications of each modality of SCE, CbD 1
treatment and how the most appropriate is selected.
Understands the process of selection of patients for liver resection or SCE, CbD 1
transplantation
Behaviours
Appreciates Involvement of multi-disciplinary team in management SCE, CbD, MSF 1,3,4
decisions, close liaison with surgical, radiology, oncology and
pathology colleagues

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 Cholangiocarcinoma
Investigation and treatment options for bile duct tumours
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the epidemiology, pathology and clinical presentation of bile SCE 1
duct tumours
Can recognise the presentation of biliary tumours arising de novo or SCE 1
in the context of PSC. Can plan programme of investigations
including detailed staging
Understands treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy and SCE, CbD 1
endoscopic management
Skills
Aware of the treatment options including biliary drainage, SCE 1,2,3
chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy or surgery
Understands rationale for selection of particular therapy in individual SCE 1,2,3
patients
Awareness of the diagnostic modalities, including CT, MRI scanning, SCE 1,2,3
brush cytology, intra ductal cholangioscopy and biopsy
Behaviours
Understands importance of multidisciplinary team of oncologist, CbD 1,3
surgeon, radiologist, histopathologist in decision making.
Discusses cases with the specialist MDT CbD 1,3

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 b) Advanced Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Advanced training in the diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel
disease

This section of the curriculum is designed to equip trainees to work in centres with a
large workload of inflammatory bowel disease, including complex and tertiary referral
disease, where a multidisciplinary approach is required.

Upon completion trainees will have a full understanding of the current state of
knowledge regarding aetiology of IBD, have a full understanding and experience of
its diagnosis and the differentials, and wide experience and knowledge of
management strategies available for IBD. This will include advanced knowledge of
medical therapies, including those undergoing clinical trials, surgical options, and the
importance of a multidisciplinary approach which centres around the patient. The
curriculum will also allow trainees to develop experience of specific areas within IBD
including IBD in pregnancy and adolescence, and of specific complications and
problems such as extraintestinal manifestations, nutrition as support and as therapy,
and surveillance strategies for colorectal carcinoma.

In order to develop the necessary skills and experience the trainee will be expected
to attend specialist IBD outpatient clinics, to develop experience of the indications,
initiation and monitoring of biological and immunosuppressive therapy, undertake
appropriate endoscopic evaluations of IBD including complex IBD and cancer
surveillance, and develop experience of the inpatient management of IBD patients
including those with complex chronic disease and acute severe disease.

The curriculum will be delivered in one or more centres which have a large IBD
workload and which have a well developed multidisciplinary team including
gastroenterologists, surgeons, histopathologists, radiologist and IBD Nurse
Specialists. These centres will also provide specialist services in one or more areas
such as pregnancy, nutrition or adolescence.

The curriculum will be followed over a 12 month period in conjunction with standard
clinical training within the curriculum to allow experience of the natural history of IBD
over time, and to understand the impact of the disease on the patients.

Assessment will be undertaken on the basis of the portfolio of clinical experience,

case based discussions, mini-CEX assessments and direct observation of practical
procedures.

General Understanding of Disease

Understanding the state of knowledge of pathogenesis of IBD, and the principles underlying
treatment
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the science underlying the pathogenesis of IBD, in particular SCE 1
relating to genetic and environmental factors involved, and
differences between UC and Crohn’s disease
Understands the natural history of UC and Crohn’s disease, including SCE 1
its variability and the impact of therapy on the natural history

Understands the mechanism of action (as far as it is understood) and SCE, CbD 1
rationale for using different treatment types in IBD including

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aminosalicylates, immune suppressants and biologic therapies
Skills
Able to use knowledge of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors SCE, CbD 1,3,4
to underlay management decisions and to stratify risk for patients and
their relative
Behaviours
Able to explain to patients and their families the concepts underlying mini-CEX, MSF, PS 1,2,3,4
the disease, and the factors that they can alter, and the risks of
complications and disease susceptibility in relatives

Diagnosis
To understand the methods of diagnosis including major differentials and to provide advice in
cases where the diagnosis is unclear
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the major differential diagnoses of IBD, including infection – SCE 1
viral, bacterial, and amoebic, vasculitis, ischaemia, Behcet’s disease,
irritable bowel syndrome etc
Knows the appropriate investigations to distinguish the above, and SCE, CbD 1
their limitations

Knows the differential when patient with know IBD presents with SCE, CbD, mini-CEX 1
symptoms including – active IBD, bacterial overgrowth, bile salt
malabsorption, obstruction
Skills
Able to identify appropriate investigations to make a positive SCE, CbD 1
diagnosis of IBD or to exclude it
Able to interpret the results of the above investigations SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
Behaviours
Outline to patients the possible causes of their symptoms mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4
Explains and initiates the appropriate sequence of investigations mini-CEX, 1.3
Can explain to patients the outcome of the investigations and their mini-CEX 1,3
implications

Assessment
The assessment of disease activity and extent including complications
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the appropriate investigations for assessing disease SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
activity and extent including:
 inflammatory markers in blood (ESR, CRP, highly sensitive
CRP) and stool (faecal calprotectin, lactoferrin etc)
and imaging techniques, including
 upper and lower GI endoscopy, CT and MRI scanning,
capsule endoscopy, enteroscopy and barium imaging
Understands the circumstances in which disease activity and extent SCE, CbD 1
should be reassessed, and when complications should be suspected
(e.g. perforation, abscess formation, fistulisation)

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Skills
Able to make a clinical assessment of a patient and determine the SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
requirement for further assessment using inflammatory markers and
imaging
Can suspect the presence of complications appropriately and take SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,2
appropriate action in terms of investigation and management
Behaviours
Explains the extent and activity of disease to patients, and to explain mini-CEX, MSF 1,2,3,4,
their implications
Can liaise with IBD nurses, radiologists and other healthcare mini-CEX, MSF 1,3
professionals to ensure timely investigation and appropriate
management of IBD and its complications

IBD Multidisciplinary Team

To understand the importance of the MDT in decision making, and to use it to maximise the
quality of patient care
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the importance of multidisciplinary decision making SCE, mini-CEX, CbD, 1,3
including when radiological, histopathological and surgical opinions MSF
should be sought
Understands the role of the IBD nurse within the MDT, and in mini-CEX, MSF 1,3
communicating with patients and their relatives

Recognises the importance of other healthcare professionals in mini-CEX, MSF 1,3,4

providing high quality care including dieticians and pharmacists
Aware of the surgical options available in IBD and how to access mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
them
Skills
Has appropriate discussions with other specialties including mini-CEX, CbD 3
surgeons, and other healthcare professionals
Can participate in an IBD MDT effectively mini-CEX, MSF 3,4
Relates well with all other healthcare professionals involved in IBD mini-CEX, MSF 3,4
patient care, especially the IBD Nurse Specialist
Behaviours
Shows commitment to team-working and shows understanding of the MSF 3,4
roles of other healthcare professionals with courtesy
Explains decision making process to the patient clearly and mini-CEX, MSF 3,4
sympathetically

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Surgery and IBD
To understand the indications for surgery in IBD and the importance of good medical- surgical
liaison in good decision-making
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands the indications for surgery in active disease, and for SCE, CbD 1
complications including structuring and fistulising disease
Understands different surgical approaches, in particular, methods of SCE, CbD 1,2
bowel-preserving surgery in Crohn’s disease and long term options
for surgery in UC

Recognises that early liaison with surgeons is important in high SCE, CbD 1,2,3
quality patient management
Skills
Has appropriate discussions with surgeons when patients are CbD, MSF 1,3
admitted with active disease
Involves surgeons early in patients with difficult chronically active CbD 1,3
disease or with complications
Is able to explain clearly to patients and relatives the role of the PS, mini-CEX 1,3
surgeon and possible surgical approaches to treatment
Behaviours
Shows willingness to liaise appropriately with surgical teams mini-CEX, MSF 3
Explains clearly to patients and relatives the involvement of the mini-CEX, PS 3,4
surgical teams and their importance and possible outcomes

Treatment Options and Individualised Care

To understand the treatment options available and to discuss with appropriately to provide
individualised patient care
Knowledge Assessment
Methods GMP
Knows the different treatment modalities for IBD given the disease SCE, CbD 1
extent, activity, previous history and complications
Knows the modes of delivery of different drug therapies and their SCE, CbD 1
advantages and disadvantages
Recognises the importance of patient choice in deciding therapy and mini-CEX 1,3
in helping to ensure adherence
Understands when surgery is the most appropriate therapeutic option SCE, CbD 1,3
and to make appropriate referrals
Skills
Demonstrates the ability to identify the possible range of appropriate mini-CEX, CbD 1,2,3,4
treatments for a particular patient and have an appropriate discussion
allowing the patient and doctors to come to a sensible consensus
Behaviours
Effectively communicates the possible treatment options, and the mini-CEX 1,2,4
potential benefits, complications and side effects of each

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Endoscopic Surveillance
Experience of endoscopic surveillance for colorectal cancer using chromoendoscopy
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the principles of colorectal cancer surveillance in IBD SCE 1
Knows the principles of chromoendoscopy and its application to IBD SCE, DOPS 1
Knows the potential of other imaging modalities that may have role in SCE, CbD 1
surveillance.
Knows the appearances of DALM and potentially serious mucosal SCE, DOPS 1
abnormalities during surveillance colonoscopy
Skills
Has experience of surveillance colonoscopy with both white light DOPS 1
examination and chromoendoscopy
Realises importance of close liaison with histopathologists in SCE, mini-CEX, 1,3
interpreting abnormal biopsies DOPS
Behaviours
Can discuss with patients and relatives the rationale for and results of mini-CEX, PS 1,2,3
endoscopic surveillance including the possible requirement for
colectomy

Complex Fistulising Crohn’s Disease

To understand and have experience of complex fistulising Crohn’s disease
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the pathogenesis and complications of fistulising Crohn’s SCE 1
disease including perianal, enteroenteric, enterocutaneous,
colovesical and rectovaginal fistulae
Understands the different treatment modalities available for treatment SCE, CbD 1
of fistulae, including antibiotics, immune modulators, biologics,
surgical drainage and the possible combinations that may be
required
Is aware of the importance of joint medical-surgical management of SCE, CbD 1,3
complex fistulae, and of nutritional support for high output fistulae
Skills
Able to detect the possibility of fistulising disease, and to perform mini-CEX, CbD 1
appropriate investigations
Can liaise with surgical colleagues to define the most appropriate MSF 3
management plan
Behaviours
Can make an appropriate assessment of fistulae, including deciding a mini-CEX 1
long term management strategy
Can provide an appropriate explanation of the problem to the patient. PS 1,4
Involves all relevant health professionals, and patient in deciding the mini-CEX, MSF 1,3
appropriate treatment strategy

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Reproductive Health, Pregnancy and Lactation
Understanding the effect of IBD and its treatment on reproductive health, pregnancy and
lactation
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the effect of active IBD, drug therapy and surgery on fecundity CbD, SCE 1
and pregnancy, specifically issues relating to immune suppressants,
biological therapy and surgery.
Knows the effect of IBD and its treatment on breast feeding SCE 1

Knows the effects of the disease and its treatment on the chances of SCE 1
conception for men with IBD
Skills
Appreciates when to alter treatment to take account of pregnancy and SCE 1
breast feeding
Can provide accurate advice about the effect of disease, treatment mini-CEX, SCE 1
and surgery on fecundity, pregnancy and lactation
Behaviours
Can discuss in an appropriate manner the treatment options for mini-CEX 1,3
patients wishing to conceive, who are already pregnant or who wish
to breast feed
Explains the issues relating to treatment to those patients and their mini-CEX, PS 1,3
partners who are planning to conceive so as to enable them to make
informed choices.

Co-Morbidity and IBD

Understanding of the effects of concurrent medical conditions on the treatment of IBD
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the risks relating to a previous history of malignancy or the SCE, CbD 1
development of malignancy in IBD, in particular to understand how
this affects treatment options.
Knows the risks relating to infection with hepatitis B, hepatitis C and SCE 1
HIV connected with treatment of IBD

Knows the circumstances in which patients should be screened or SCE, CbD 1

immunised for infectious diseases before commencing therapy
Skills
Can identify patients at risk for particular treatment due to concurrent SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1,2
or pervious medical conditions
Can identify patients who need to be screened or immunised for SCE, CbD 1,2
infectious diseases prior to therapy
Understands the treatment options available for patients with pre- SCE, CbD 1
existing medical conditions
Behaviours
Can explain to patients the reasons for screening /immunising mini-CEX 1,3
Can explain the way that treatment may be affected by other medical mini-CEX 1,3
conditions and to start appropriate treatment

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Nutrition
To understand the nutritional principles underlying IBD
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the role of nutrition as therapy for active IBD SCE 1
Knows the role of dietary alteration in treatment of symptoms of IBD SCE, CbD 1
e.g. low residue diet for stricturing disease

Knows the mechanism of nutritional deficiency in IBD, the importance SCE, CbD 1
of gut preservation, and the role of nutritional support in IBD
Understands the circumstances when nutritional support should be SCE, CbD 1
provided by enteral or parenteral routes, and to know the various
methods of delivery
Understands the possible methods of maximising bowel preservation SCE, CbD 1,3
including appropriate medical therapy, endoscopic therapy and bowel
preserving surgery
Skills
Uses enteral feed as therapy for active disease in appropriate SCE, mini-CEX, CbD 1
patients, and to alter diets as appropriate to improve symptoms
Can use enteral and parenteral nutrition appropriately to support mini-CEX, CbD 1
patients with active IBD and to prevent substantial malnutrition
Can perform colonoscopic balloon dilatation to prevent the DOPS, CbD 1
requirement for resection, and to understand when to refer for
enteroscopic dilatation or for a surgical opinion
Behaviours
Explains to patients and relatives the importance of nutrition as mini-CEX, PS 1,3,4
treatment and support
Can work with the MDT to ensure all treatment decisions maximise CbD 1,3
bowel length
Liaises with dieticians and other healthcare professionals to ensure CbD, MSF 1,3,4
that all patients have appropriate nutritional support

Paediatric to Adult Transition

To understand the issues facing adolescents with IBD and the handover of care to adult
gastroenterologists
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Appreciates the differences in approach between paediatric and adult SCE, CbD 1
IBD management
Knows the importance of maintaining adequate growth and SCE, CbD 1
maintenance of full time education

Has awareness of the particular issues concerning IBD in SCE, CbD, mini-CEX 1,3
adolescents and appreciate the practical problems in transition to
adult care
Skills
Has experience of adolescent transition clinics and to understand the mini-CEX, CbD 1,3
key personnel and structural issues

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Relates to young patients and understand their concerns about mini-CEX 1,3
disease and its treatment
Behaviours
Able to discuss the treatment of IBD with the patient and parents in mini-CEX 1,3,4
an approachable and appropriate way, respecting the primary duty to
the patient
Can successfully take over from paediatricians the care of young mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
people with IBD and manage their ongoing IBD care

Novel Therapies
Experience novel therapies in IBD, and of clinical trials used to pilot their introduction
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the principles underlying the development of current new SCE 1
therapies in IBD
Understands the principles of “Good Clinical Practice” in a clinical trial SCE, CbD 1
context (GCP)

Knows when entry into a clinical trial might be appropriate for a SCE, CbD 1,3,4
patient with IBD
Skills
Has ability to explain to a patient the background to a new therapy mini-CEX 1,2,4
and the risks and benefits of entering a clinical trial of new treatment
Can meet the standards set by GCP in clinical trials mini-CEX 1,2,4
Behaviours
Gains experience of relating to patients and study subjects during CbD 1.3
ongoing clinical trials as an investigator or subinvestigator
Can take informed consent for research participants in clinical trials DOPS 1,2,3,4

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 c) Advanced Nutrition
Designed for a trainee who wishes to develop their practice of nutrition to a
more advanced level than the standard set in the core syllabus. It includes
those who will work as a trainee in a level 3 or 4 Intestinal Failure/Home
Parenteral Nutrition (IF/HPN) unit.

General Comments
The core curriculum gives the trainee the basic understanding that undernutrition is
common (up to 40% of hospital inpatients), is present in all specialities, and is often
undetected and thus not treated. No single specialty looks after undernourished
patients. However gastroenterologists often take the lead in this area, as it is usually
the gut that fails and gastroenterologists have the skills to address this. This means
that the gastroenterologist must work closely with many other specialities.
Gastroenterologists may chair trust nutritional steering groups and are often the
clinical lead for a nutrition support team (NST). As it is now recommended by NICE
that all hospitals in England have nutrition support teams, it is essential that
gastroenterologists take an interest in nutritional support, and therefore that a
proportion of trainee reach a more advanced level than the core nutrition syllabus
would normally allow.

This advanced part of the curriculum will equip a specialty registrar with an interest in
nutritional support not only to have the knowledge and experience to take the lead
role in nutritional support within a hospital but also to be able to care for patients in a
level 3 or 4 IF/HPN unit. The StR must be able to work effectively in a
multidisciplinary NST and work especially closely with surgical colleagues.

There are important principles that underlie the care of patients needing
interventional nutritional support, and which must be clearly understood:

1. The underlying condition and its outcome.

2. Gastrointestinal and nutritional physiology.
3. Nutritional and fluid requirements and how they are determined
4. The indications, contraindications and complications of enteral and parenteral
feeding
5. The definitions and causes of intestinal failure (IF) with an awareness of a
patients remaining gut anatomy.
6. The management of patients with complex IBD.

The advanced module will deliver on these six principles with experiential exposure.
The rest of this document goes into further detail and divides the competencies into
general nutrition (re-emphasizing the core components), intestinal failure generally,
then specific conditions that can cause intestinal failure, parenteral and enteral
nutrition, eating disorders and finally the ethical and legal aspects of giving artificial
nutritional support.

Glossary:

IF: Intestinal failure

PEG: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
PN: Parenteral nutrition
PEJ: Percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy
EN: Enteral nutrition

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PEGJ: PEG with jejunostomy
HPN: Home parenteral nutrition
NJ: Naso-jejunal
HEN: Home enteral nutrition
LFT: Liver function tests
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
RIG: Radiologically inserted gastrostomy
ITU: Intensive care unit
NST: Nutrition support team
PINNT: Patients on Intravenous and Nasogastric Nutrition Therapy
PICC: Peripherally inserted central catheter
BMI: Body mass index
%WL: Percentage weight loss
BANS: British artificial nutrition survey

General Nutrition
The general principles of nutritional support (re-emphasis of the core curriculum).
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the prevalence of undernutrition in the community, care AA, SCE 1
settings and hospitals
Appreciates the costs to the NHS of undernourished patients SCE 1
Understands the consequences of undernutrition (at organ and SCE 1
molecular levels
Knows how to perform nutritional screening and assessment (BMI, SCE 1
%WL, likely oral intake over next 5 days, mid arm circumference and
muscle mass, grip dynometry etc). Know that albumin is not a
nutritional marker
Estimates a patient’s nutritional requirements (energy, protein, water, SCE 1
electrolytes, trace elements and vitamins) in health and in different
circumstances (e.g. perioperatively, critical care etc) and with different
illnesses
Knows the causes for dysphagia (e.g. cerebro-vascular disease) and SCE 1
be able to asses swallowing
Understands how the catering system operates in a hospital SCE 1
Knows how food can be fortified and know the types of oral nutritional SCE 1
supplements available
Understands how to assess a patient for the risks of developing SCE 1,2
refeeding problems
Knows the benefits and risks of EN and PN SCE 1
Knows the different roles of each member of a NST (clinician, nurse, SCE 1,2,3
dietician and pharmacist)
Skills
Performs a nutritional assessment DOPS 1
Is able to select appropriate fluids and nutrition in the early post- CbD, mini-CEX 1
operative phase
Can identify and treat patients at risk of refeeding problems CbD, mini-CEX 1,2

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Recognises vitamin and mineral deficiencies and conditions in which CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
they are likely to occur (e.g. vit A deficiency with severe steatorrhoea)
and be able to give appropriate treatment
Selects method and route of feeding CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Inserts enteral feeding tubes NG and PEG DOPS 1,2
Selects appropriateness for a PEG or RIG CbD 1,2
Enters patient on BANS TO 1,3
Behaviours
Works within and lead a multidisciplinary NST MSF 1,2,3,4
Has the expertise to be able to chair a nutrition steering committee MSF, TO 1,2,3,4
Is able to balance the benefits and risks of the methods of giving CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
artificial nutritional support

Intestinal Failure: General

What is meant by intestinal failure, how it is classified and its severity measured
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the anatomy and physiology of the gut and thus the SCE 1
consequences of the loss of all or part of the stomach, jejunum, ileum
and colon and associated organs (e.g. pancreas and gallbladder)
Understands gastrointestinal fluid losses in the fasting state and after SCE 1
food
Knows where different macro/micronutrients, water, electrolytes, SCE 1
vitamins and trace elements are absorbed
Can define, classify and grade the severity of intestinal failure. CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
Knows the appropriate investigations required to fully assess a
patient with IF
Knows the current criteria for referral for consideration of a small mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
intestinal (+/-and liver) transplant and know the current chances of
patient survival, graft survival and the patient being able to completely
stop PN
Has knowledge of congenital gut disorders that may necessitate CbD 1
nutritional support (e.g. volvulus).
Skills
Can take a relevant history from patients with IF and perform a DOPS 1,2
relevant clinical examination - including inspection of abdominal
wounds, fistulas and at the stoma/fistula outputs, and inspecting any
tubes/catheters and appliances
Understands the underlying disease process and its appropriate CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
management.
Understand the surgical procedures and the remaining CbD 1,2
gastrointestinal anatomy (be able to draw a diagram of the remaining
gastrointestinal anatomy)
Can predict the outcome in terms of the nutritional and fluid support CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
needed and predict the duration for which this support is needed
Can select and administer the most appropriate fluid and nutritional CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
support

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Can help to plan the time for any corrective surgery CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
Understands and works with psychological medicine to address the MSF, TO 1,2
psychological/emotional needs of a patient
Can discuss possible referral for intestinal transplantation when CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
appropriate.
Behaviours
Has a structured approach to managing a patient who presents with CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
intestinal failure
Works with the multidisciplinary NST and other specialties (e.g. pain MSF, TO 1,2,3,4
team, stoma care, tissue viability, psychological medicine)
Gives care appropriate to the patient’s needs and anxieties, and can MSF 1,2,3,4
liaise with the patient, carers, friends and family

Short bowel: Jejunostomy / High Output Stoma

Managing the problems of a small bowel stoma with a high volume output.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Has knowledge of stomas includes understanding how, why and SCE 1
where a stoma is formed
Appreciates the difference between a jejunostomy, ileostomy and SCE 1
colostomy and the problems that can result from each
Understands the role of a stoma care nurse and the problems with MSF 1,3
which she/he can help (leakage, poor stoma etc)
Understands the underlying diseases that result in a jejunostomy CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
being fashioned
Has a systematic approach to investigating the causes of a high CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
output stoma
Understands the principles of treatment including restricting oral CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
hypotonic fluid, drinking a glucose-saline solution and the use of
drugs (antidiarrhoeal and antisecretory)
Knows when parenteral support is needed including subcutaneous CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
saline and magnesium
Able to predict patient outcome in terms of fluid and nutritional needs CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
from knowledge of how much functional bowel remains
Knows the long term problems of having a jejunostomy CbD 1
(dehydration/renal failure, gallstones, liver fibrosis and osteoporosis)
Is aware of other surgical options in short bowel (reverse segment, CbD, mini-CEX 1
intestinal lengthening etc)
Understands the principles of feeding into bowel that is not in CbD, DOPS, mini- 1
continuity (fistuloclysis) CEX
Knows how remaining bowel length can be measured (at surgery or TO 1
radiologically)
Skills
Can use/apply the different types of stoma bag / drainage bag and MSF, TO 1,2,3,4
how they are used
Can explain to a patient why drinking hypotonic fluid is detrimental CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4

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Can investigate the causes of a high output stoma (other than a short CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
bowel)
Can choose the most appropriate fluid, nutrition and drug treatments CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
and route by which they are given
Behaviours
Is able to explain the principles of management to patients, carers, MSF 1,2,3,4
friends and family and be able to manage long-term problems
(osteoporosis, gallstones, renal stones and poor venous access)
Works closely within the multidisciplinary NST especially with the MSF 1,2,3,4
dieticians

Short bowel: Jejunum in Continuity with Colon

Managing a patient with a short length of bowel in continuity with all or part of their colon.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the advantages of having a colon in situ in terms of fluid and SCE 1,2
nutritional requirements and appreciates desirability of restoring
intestinal continuity where possible.
Appreciates these patients mainly have problems from becoming CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
slowly undernourished, and that they rarely have fluid balance
problems
Knows the principles behind a high polysaccharide, low oxalate diet CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
(but one in which the fat content is not increased)
Understands the mechanisms of intestinal adaptation and the time CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
over which it occurs
Appreciates the problems which are specific to this type of patient CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
with a short bowel namely calcium-oxalate renal stones and d- lactic
acidosis
Skills
Recognises when dietary measures are inappropriate and PN is CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
needed
Can recognise when intestinal adaptation has occurred and PN can CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
be stopped
Gives appropriate dietary advice and prescribe drugs to reduce CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
diarrhoea (including bile sequestering agents
Behaviours
Can explain to the patient, carers, friends and family the relevance of MSF 1,2,3,4
the preserved colon and thus advise about what the patient should
eat
Works closely within the multidisciplinary NST especially with MSF 1,2,3,4
dieticians

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Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Managing patients with complex inflammatory bowel disease needing nutritional support.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Appreciates that preserving bowel length is important CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
Knows how to use immunomodulating or biological drugs to treat IBD CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
so as to maintain a maximum bowel length and avoid resections that
may result in a short bowel
Knows endoscopic and surgical techniques that avoid bowel being CbD, mini-CEX 1
resected (e.g. balloon dilatation and sphincteroplasty)
Knows the dietary therapies available to reduce disease and CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
symptoms (e.g. for intermittent obstruction l giving a liquid or low fibre
diet).
Skills
Appreciates that preserving bowel length is important CbD, mini-CEX,CE 1
Can use immunomodulating or biological drugs to treat IBD so as to CbD, mini-CEX,CE 1,2
maintain a maximum bowel length and avoid resections that may
result in a short bowel
Behaviours
Can empathise with and appreciate the needs of patients with IBD MSF 1,2,3,4
Works within the multidisciplinary NST and also with the IBD nurses MSF 1,2,3,4
and surgeons
Discuss any issue relating the disease honestly with the patient, MSF 1,2,3,4
carers, friends and family

Ischaemia
Managing the consequences of having small bowel removed due to ischaemia.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the causes of small bowel infarction CbD, mini-CEX 1
Knows the difference between arterial and venous gut infarction CbD, mini-CEX 1
Understands the problems and timing of anastomosing the small CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
bowel onto the colon
Knows the different methods of imaging the vascular supply to the gut CbD, mini-CEX 1
(e.g. CT angiography, digital subtraction angiography, angiograms
etc)
Skills
Is able to investigate the causes of a small bowel arterial or venous CbD, mini-CEX 1
infarction
Can identify other co-existing vascular problems CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can choose the appropriate route for nutritional support (EN or PN) CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Be able to feed into defunctioned gut (fistuloclysis) when appropriate DOPS 1
Behaviours
Works within the multidisciplinary NST and with the vascular MSF 1,2,3,4

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surgeons and Haematologists
Appreciates there may be other co-morbidities that limit treatment CbD, mini-CEX 1
Can discuss disease-related issues honestly with the patient, carers, MSF 1,2,3,4
friends and family

Post-Operative Complications
Understand the principles of managing complex post operative problems especially an
enterocutaneous fistula.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the principles of normal post operative care including early CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
fluid management (avoiding excessive saline) and having a
knowledge of when to start nutritional support
Appreciates the reasons why surgical wounds and anastomoses can CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
break down
Knows the stages of development of an enterocutaneous fistula and CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
thus the appropriate fluid/nutritional management at each stage
Understands how complex abdominal wounds are dressed (e.g. CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
wound manager bags)
Understands what is meant by a frozen abdomen and sclerosing CbD, mini-CEX 1
peritonitis
Knows why intestinal obstruction occurs and the ways in which it can CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
be managed
Knows why abdominal surgery is best avoided 10-100 days after the CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
last abdominal operation
Knows the principles of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
(including reducing insulin resistance and saline excess).
Skills
Can institute an appropriate investigation plan for occult sepsis CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can assess whether an enterocutaneous fistula is likely to close CbD, mini-CEX 1
spontaneously
Is able to prescribe appropriate pain relief (often with the pain team) MSF 1,2,3,4
Can assess fluid losses and thus give appropriate fluid replacement CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Appreciates the principle of later restorative surgery CbD, mini-CEX 1
Is able to arrange the appropriate tests for mapping the remaining gut CbD, mini-CEX 1
(both that is in and out of circuit)
Gives appropriate psychological care with the psychological medicine MSF 1,2,3,4
team
Helps a patient to be physically and emotionally well so they are able CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
to tolerate more surgery if necessary or be able to cope at home
Can feed into defunctioned gut (fistuloclysis) when appropriate DOPS 1
Behaviours
Understands role of tissue viability nurses and can integrate care with MSF 1,2,3,4
them
Explains to patients their anatomy, the principles of intended MSF 1,2,3,4
treatment and any procedures

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Understands the slow nature of the recovery process (except when MSF 1,2,3,4
complications such as sepsis, bleeding or clots occur) and
appreciates that patients may have episodes of being very unwell
and maintains their trust throughout.
Can maintain liaison with the multidisciplinary NST, surgeons and MSF 1,2,3,4
intensivists as necessary
Can discuss all issues openly and honestly with the patient, carers, MSF 1,2,3,4
friends and family

Enteric Dysmotility
Management of enteric dysmotility and its associated problems.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the different causes of enteric dysmotility (myopathy and CbD, mini-CEX 1
neuropathy) and their presenting features
Have a knowledge of scleroderma, amyloid and congenital motor CbD, mini-CEX 1
abnormalities of the gut that affect absorption
Knows the principles of investigation, pain relief and prokinetic drug CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
treatment
Understands bacterial overgrowth and its treatment CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Understands how emotional status can affect gut function CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Knows how diabetic complications can affect the gut CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
Skills
Can determine when organic obstruction is occurring CbD, mini-CEX, TO 1,2
Can understand the principles and interpret the results of CbD, mini-CEX, TO 1,2
gastrointestinal motility investigations (including manometry, transit
studies etc) and autonomic function tests
Advises on appropriate prokinetic drugs and analgesics MSF 1,2,3
Can detect and treat bacterial overgrowth CbD, mini-CEX 1
Advises on appropriate surgery including bypass procedures CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
Behaviours
Can relieve symptoms while not causing/risking harm with other MSF 1,2,3,4
medications (e.g. opiates)
Works with the multidisciplinary NST, psychiatrists/psychologists, MSF 1,2,3,4
surgeons and the pain management team
Can give careful explanation of the problems to the patient, carers, MSF 1,2,3,4
friends and family

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Management of Pancreatitis
Managing patients at all stages of acute or chronic pancreatitis.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the different causes of pancreatitis and know how and when to CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
investigate these
Knows how to assess the severity of acute pancreatitis clinically and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
radiologically
Knows the advantages and disadvantages of the available routes for CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
giving nutritional support
Recognises the slow nature and sometimes fluctuating pattern of the CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
illness in which the patient often gets much worse before recovering
Knows the time-course and outcome of complications (e.g. infective CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
necrosis, portal vein thrombosis, pseudocysts etc) and their surgical
(e.g. debridement), radiological (e.g. drainage of collections) and
medical treatments (e.g. octreotide)
Skills
Can choose when gastric and jejunal feeding can be used and when CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
PN is appropriate
Can determine when an intra-abdominal collection needs draining (in CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
conjunction with the surgical team).
Is able to give appropriate pancreatic enzyme therapy CbD, mini-CEX 1
Can institute appropriate pain management (in conjunction with the MSF 1,2,3,4
pain team)
Behaviours
Communicates with the patient, friends and family through a long and MSF 1,2,3,4
serious illness which often gets worse before getting better
Works in a multidisciplinary team that involves the NST, intensivists MSF 1,2,3,4
and surgeons
Can consider all aspects of care including treating endocrine MSF 1,2,3,4
pancreatic dysfunction in conjunction with
diabetologists/endocrinologists

Management of Abdominal Malignancy

Managing patients with primary or secondary abdominal malignancy.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows when nutritional support is appropriate not only to prolong life CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
but also to relieve symptoms (thirst and hunger) and improve the
quality of remaining life (e.g. gut obstruction or enterocutaneous
fistula)
Knows the prognosis of different abdominal malignancies (primary CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
and secondary) and their possible treatments.
Appreciates the ethical issues in managing patients with advanced CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
malignancy
Skills

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Can select patients in whom it is appropriate to give palliative CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
parenteral nutrition
Assesses the benefits and risks of giving nutritional support CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
Can balance the needs of quality of life, analgesia and nutritional MSF 1,2,3,4
support
Can insert a venting gastrostomy tube DOPS 1,2
Can treat the complications of entero-cutaneous fistula, bowel CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
obstruction and ascites
Behaviours
Can work in a multidisciplinary environment that includes the pain and MSF 1,2,3,4
palliative care teams and the oncologists
Discusses the ethical issues involved in prolonging life and to weigh MSF 1,2,3,4
this up against quality of life
Can speak honestly about often sensitive issues with the patient, MSF 1,2,3,4
carers, friends and family

Chemotherapy and Irradiation

Managing patients having high dose chemotherapy. Managing the long term effects of irradiation
exposure that was given to treat intra-abdominal or pelvic malignancy.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows which chemotherapeutic drugs can affect the gut and their CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
duration of action
Knows about the short and long term problems of irradiation damage. CbD, mini-CEX 1
Appreciates the progressive nature of irradiation damage
Understands the immunosuppressed state and the key elements in CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
managing an immunocompromised individual
Understands the gastrointestinal problems of graft versus host CbD, mini-CEX 1
disease (GVHD)
Skills
Can support the nutrition of a patient who is having high dose CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
chemotherapy
Can choose the appropriate route for giving nutritional support CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Is aware of the metabolic consequences of chemotherapy CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can assess when a bowel resection or bypass may be appropriate for CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
a patient with irradiation damage
Can give nutritional support (often PN) to a patient with GVHD CbD, mini-CEX 1
Behaviours
Able to counsel patients undergoing chemotherapy or those who MSF 1,2,3,4
have the long-term effects of irradiation damage
Works within a multidisciplinary NST including the oncologists MSF 1,2,3,4

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Post Gastric Surgery
Managing patient who have had gastric surgery and are undernourished.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Understands why part or all of the patient’s stomach is removed and CbD, mini-CEX 1
the altered post-surgical anatomy.
Understands the problems of a gastro-enterostomy and a Roux-en-y CbD, mini-CEX 1
anastomosis
Has awareness of dumping syndromes CbD, mini-CEX 1
Knows the various surgical operations performed for obesity (bariatric CbD, mini-CEX 1
surgery) and their complications
Skills
Can give nutritional advice and choose the appropriate method by CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3
which an enteral feeding tube is inserted into the small bowel
Can initiate the use of pancreatic enzyme therapy CbD, mini-CEX 1
Has ability to recognise and treat early and late dumping syndrome CbD, mini-CEX 1
Behaviours
Able to help the patient, carers, friends and family understand how MSF 1,2,3,4
the patient can be encouraged to gain weight
Works closely with dieticians and surgical colleagues MSF 1,2,3,4

Parenteral Nutrition
Managing parenteral nutrition in hospital and at home.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Indications:
 Knows when parenteral nutrition should be given in CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
preference to enteral nutrition
Catheter care:
 Appreciates strict aseptic technique needed to insert and care CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
for parenteral feeding catheters
 Knows about the different catheter types (including ports) CbD, mini-CEX 1
Prescription:
 Knows how a parenteral feeding bag is made up including its CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1
limitations
 Understands the components of a feeding beg CbD, mini-CEX 1
 Understands the issues of compatibility (cracking and TO 1
creaming etc)
Assessment/monitoring: 1
 Knows how to assess the nutritional / fluid requirements and CbD, DOPS, EX 1
prescribe appropriate amounts
Complications: 1,2

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  Knows how to diagnose and manage catheter related sepsis, CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
exit site and tunnel infections, central vein thrombosis,
abnormal liver function tests (LFT) and blocked catheters
 Knows that most LFT abnormalities have causes other than CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
the PN
 Knows that a proximal catheter tip is the most common CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
reason for central vein thrombosis
Outcome:
 Appreciates the difficulties of managing parenteral nutrition at CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
home
 Knows about the long term problems including venous CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
access, recurrent catheter related sepsis and osteoporosis
Training:
 Appreciates the training programme for establishing a patient TO, MSF 1
on HPN (including funding, connection, disconnection,
dressing care)
 Be aware of where patients can obtain more information (e.g. TO, MSF 1
PINNT)
Funding:
 Understands how to arrange funding for long-term HPN TO, MSF 1
Skills
Can write PN prescriptions according to a patients needs CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Appreciates when PN is necessary and be able to implement it CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can safely insert parenteral feeding lines (PICC and Tunnelled DOPS 1,2
central lines) using the jugular, subclavian and femoral central routes
Institutes appropriate investigations and treatments for all catheter- CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
related complications. This includes venography, thrombolysis and
venous stenting for central vein thrombosis
Can access a parenteral feeding line using aseptic technique (to take DOPS 1,2,4
blood and blood cultures)
Can treat catheter related sepsis with an anti-biotic lock technique CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can remove a cuffed feeding line DOPS 1,2
Can recognise PN associated liver disease and know when to CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
consider a liver (+/- small bowel) transplant
Coordinates the process for discharging a patient on HPN MSF 1,2,3,4
Behaviours
Selects the appropriate route for a PN feeding catheter and manage CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
the feeding and any complications in a competent and caring manner
Works within a multidisciplinary NST liaising with the surgeons, MSF 1,2,3,4
radiologists, psychiatrists and home care providers as necessary
Discusses the various and often complex issues openly and honestly MSF 1,2,3,4
with the patient, carers, friends and family

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Enteral Nutrition
Managing enteral nutrition in hospital and at home.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows when patients should have EN (including in the process of CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
weaning off PN)
Understands when EN is not successful or causing problems and PN CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
is more appropriate
Is aware of the problems in inserting enteral feeding tubes into CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
patients with liver disease or previous gastric surgery
Knows when EN is appropriate after gastrointestinal surgery and in CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
patients with intestinal failure
Appreciates the malabsorption factor in patients with a short bowel CbD, mini-CEX 1
Knows about feed composition and the feed in special circumstances CbD, mini-CEX 1
(e.g. osmolality and sodium content in patients with a jejunostomy)
Appreciates special problems associated with re-feeding SCE, CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Skills
Can determine when EN is not appropriate or causing harm CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can insert NJ tubes at the bedside and endoscopically DOPS 1,2
Able to insert a PEGJ and PEJ DOPS 1,2
Can monitor for refeeding problems and prevent and treat them in CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
advance
Can choose and adjust the composition of enteral feeds as CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
appropriate
Behaviours
Exhibits a caring attitude especially to those with learning difficulties, MSF 1,2,3,4
neurological conditions and eating disorders. Be able to care for
these patients in the long-term
Works with the multidisciplinary NST and home care providers as MSF 1,2,3,4
necessary
Can discuss the issues honestly with the patient, carers, friends and MSF 1,2,3,4
family

Eating Disorders
Managing patients who have or may have an eating disorder (e.g. anorexia nervosa)
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the diagnostic features, predisposing factors and CbD, mini-CEX, SCE 1,2
consequences (physical, psychological and social) of an eating
disorder (e.g. anorexia nervosa)
Knows the physical (especially refeeding) problems and principles of CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
psychological treatment
Knows the associated co-morbidities (e.g. depression, anxiety, CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
obsessive compulsive disorder, laxative abuse, osteoporosis etc)

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Knows the legal process for implementing compulsory treatment and CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
know when it is necessary
Skills
Is able to suspect an atypical eating disorder and seek help from a CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
psychiatric/eating disorders team to help diagnose, investigate and
treat it
Can assess the physical problems CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can decide when and what interventional nutritional support is CbD, mini-CEX 1,2,3,4
needed
Can give appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements CbD, mini-CEX 1
Can monitor nutrient intake CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Can detect, in conjunction with a psychiatric/eating disorders team, CbD or mini-CEX, TO 1,2,3,4
which patients should be admitted to an eating disorders unit and
when a compulsory treatment order is needed.
Behaviours
Appreciates that these patients can be very time consuming and CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
difficult to manage but the patient may have a life endangering illness
(thus the doctor needs to be compassionate yet firm in managing
them)
Works closely with a psychiatric/eating disorders team CbD 1,2,3,4
Can co-ordinate, in conjunction with the psychiatric/eating disorders CbD, MSF 1,2,3,4
team, the whole multidisciplinary team in giving consistent advice to
the patient
Can discuss the issues honestly and sensitively with the patient, CbD, PS 1,2,3,4
carers, friends and family

Ethical and Legal Issues that Arise in Nutritional Support

Managing the patient without capacity.
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows about the main situations in which legal/ethical issues arise, CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
namely internally feeding a patient with poor cerebral function (stroke,
motor neuron disease etc) or refusal to eat (anorexia nervosa or
hunger strike), or parenterally feeding a patient who has incurable
abdominal cancer
Understands the Mental Health Act and the following terms: CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
 Advanced directive
 Futile treatment
 Capacity
 Best interests
 Autonomy
 Beneficence
 Power of attorney
 Persistent vegetative state
Knows when nutritional or fluid treatment can be withheld or CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
withdrawn

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Understands how to preserve dignity CbD, mini-CEX 1,2
Skills
Can decide when artificial nutritional support and/or fluid should be CbD 1,2,3,4
withheld or with drawn
Can recognise when legal advice should be sought. CbD 1,2,3
Behaviours
Remains compassionate at al times and when appropriate does MSF 1,2,3,4
everything possible to allow a dignified death
Can discuss the issues sensitively and honestly with the patient, MSF 1,2,3,4
carers, friends and family

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 d) Advanced Endoscopy
Advanced Training in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-pancreatography
(ERCP) and/or Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for Gastroenterology Trainees

The core part of this curriculum provides trainees with the knowledge and skills to
assess and refer patients for consideration of ERCP and EUS. They will understand
the anatomy, physiology, and related pathology, the indications and complications,
the relevant co-morbidities, and their impact on likely outcomes of the procedures,
and alternative investigations and treatment.

This part of the curriculum will equip trainees to carry out one or both procedures to
agreed standards of competence, as well as to provide very detailed assessment,
options appraisal, and prognostication resulting from the procedural outcomes. The
outcomes listed are over and above those listed under the core outcomes in the
endoscopy curriculum.

It is envisaged that this area of specialty training will take place over a year, within
one or more related NHS Trusts, who can provide both the clinical opportunities but
also expert, trained and effective teachers who can devote sufficient protected time
to the training required. It will not be enough that the trainers are experts alone – they
will also need to be expert teachers too, at least to have undertaken a Training
Endoscopy Trainers course and to be participating in regular teaching evaluations,
and ideally to be training on regional training courses.

Whilst it is not thought that experience in the procedures alone for trainees will be
adequate to deliver the training to the required standards, in order to provide the
sufficient number and variety of advanced training opportunities, an endoscopy unit
will need to be large, or to work in collaboration with local quality assured units to
support trainees.

The curriculum will include:-

1. Extended knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the

relevant areas
2. Thorough clinical assessment of patients potentially suitable for the
procedures
3. Triage and prioritisation of patients for the procedures
4. Thorough and detailed information and realistic consenting of patients,
including relative and absolute risks and benefits, and alternatives
5. Preparation and care of patients before, during, and post-procedure to
minimise risks and complications
6. Skilled instrument handling and accessory use to enable safe and
effective procedures, meeting JAG standards of competence
7. Diagnostic and management skills using the imaging modalities available
– ultrasonic, radiographic, and endoscopic images.
8. Advanced team-working skills to ensure safe and effective practice, and to
ensure patients benefit from multi-disciplinary team expertise, including
the limitations of the procedures and appropriate referral of patients

The specialised training will build on the experience provided in core training, both
generally and especially in endoscopy, where many generic issues, including
knowledge and skills in consenting, safe sedation, anatomy, pathology, diathermy,
are re-visited and developed further. Other aspects, such as quality assurance, audit,

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 128 of 157
and all behaviours very much apply here as - notably with ERCP - there is an
unparalleled morbidity and mortality rate, compared with all other aspects of
investigational and therapeutic gastroenterological practice.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 129 of 157
 Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
To provide a syllabus and skills learning programme to ensure the
acquisition of sufficient knowledge and skill to enable a
gastroenterologist to provide an EUS service in a specialist capacity

To ensure knowledge of the principles and details of safe endoscopy practise in the area of EUS
and associated therapeutic procedures
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows the detailed anatomy of oesophageal layers, the pancreas, SCE, CbD 1,2
the ano-rectal region, their anatomical relations and lymph node
drainage; staging classification and the pathology of oesophageal,
anorectal malignancies and pancreatic disease;
Knows the indications and contra-indications for EUS, node biopsy, SCE, CbD 1,2
drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts and other procedures;
Understands the special characteristics of EUS scopes, controls, SCE, CbD 1,2
accessories and devices
Knows the risks and complications of EUS, the associated SCE, CbD 1,2
interventional procedures, their assessment, their management, risk
reduction strategies and the alternatives to EUS
Knows the quality standards in EUS SCE, CbD 1,2
Skills
Demonstrates skill in: CbD, DOPS, MSF 1,3
 Assessing the appropriateness and timing of patients for EUS
and associated procedures
 Appropriate sedation and monitoring techniques
 Specific intubation techniques and EUS scope handling for
both forward and side viewing scopes
 Interventional accessory and device handling
 Assessment of pathology at EUS
 Management of aftercare
Behaviours
Can discuss, explain, consent, and break bad news with sensitivity MSF. 1
patients undergoing EUS
Fully participates in the multidisciplinary team, and work effectively MSF 1
within the team to provide safe and high quality care

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 ERCP

To ensure knowledge of the principles and details of safe endoscopy practise in the area of
ERCP and associated therapeutic procedures
Assessment
Knowledge Methods GMP
Knows: SCE 1,2
 The anatomy of the pancreas, bile ducts system, their
lymphatic drainage, anatomic relationships and the
implications for ERCP
 The pathology of the bile ducts and pancreas
 The indications and contraindications for ERCP
 The risks and complications of ERCP, the associated
interventions, their management and strategies for their
avoidance
 Quality standards for ERCP and procedures
Skills
Demonstrates skill in; CbD, DOPS 1,3
 Assessing the appropriateness and timing of ERCP and
associated procedures and alternatives
 The use of appropriate sedation, analgesia, anaesthetics and
other drugs required for safe procedures
 Safe endoscope and accessory handling skills
 recognition and assessment of pathology
 Appropriate interventional procedures
 Management of after care
Behaviours
Undertakes explanation, consent, and breaking bad news realistically mini-CEX, CbD, 1
and honestly with patients. MSF.
Fully participates in quality assurance processes related to ERCP, Audit, MSF 1
and work effectively within the team to provide safe and high quality
care

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4 Learning and Teaching
4.1 The Training Programme

The organisation and delivery of postgraduate training is the statutory responsibility

of the General Medical Council (GMC) which devolves responsibility for the local
organisation and delivery of training to the deaneries. Each deanery oversees a
“School of Medicine” which is comprised of the regional Specialty Training
Committees (STC's) in each medical specialty. Responsibility for the organisation
and delivery of specialty training in gastroenterology in each deanery is, therefore,
the remit of the regional gastroenterology STC overseen by the deanery. Each STC
has a Training Programme Director who coordinates the training programme in the
specialty. The training programme will be organised by deanery specialty training
committees following submission to JRCPTB who will seek approval from GMC. It is
acknowledged that deaneries may provide their formal education in different formats
including monthly training days or weekly half days. Endoscopy training likewise may
include training courses out of the deanery

Although this curriculum is competency based, the duration of training must meet the
European minimum of 4 (four) years for training in a single designated specialty
adjusted accordingly for flexible training (EU directive 2005/36/EEC). Most trainees
will enrol in a dual specialty programme and will be in training for a minimum of 5
years. Within the gastroenterology training programme it will also be possible to gain
specialist certification in hepatology and undertake advanced training in nutrition,
inflammatory bowel disease and specialised endoscopy.

The following combinations of certification may be acquired:

 Gastroenterology and General (Internal) Medicine 5 years

 Gastroenterology and General (Internal) Medicine
and Hepatology 5 years
 Gastroenterology alone 4 years
 Gastroenterology and Hepatology 4 years

It is envisaged that the majority of trainees will follow the first pathway

Trainees who wish to achieve a CCT in General (Internal) Medicine must have
applied for and successfully entered a training programme which was advertised
openly as a dual training programme. This programme will need to achieve the
competencies as described in both the gastroenterology and GIM (Acute) curricula
and there must be jointly agreed assessments (proposed by both SACs and
approved by GMC). Postgraduate deans wishing to advertise such programmes
should ensure that they meet the requirements of both SACs.

Training will normally take place in a range of district general hospitals and teaching
hospitals for a duration of 6 or 12 months at each institution. Trainees will be
expected to spend a minimum of 24 months in district general hospitals (12 months
for lecturers). There will be at least two consultant supervisors within the specialty at
any training unit and a minimum of one consultant gastroenterologist per trainee.
Progression through the programme will be determined with the aid of the decision
grid (see section 5.5 ARCP decision aid). The final award of a CCT will be dependent
on the achievement of competencies as evidenced by the successful completion of
assessments set out in the curriculum.

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The sequence of training should ensure appropriate progression in experience and
responsibility. The training to be provided at each training site is defined to ensure
that, during the programme, the entire curriculum is covered and also that
unnecessary duplication and educationally unrewarding experiences are avoided.
However, the sequence of training should ideally be flexible enough to allow the
trainee to develop a special interest.

All training in gastroenterology should be conducted in institutions with appropriate

standards of clinical governance and which meet the relevant Health and Safety
standards for clinical areas. Training placements must comply with the European
Working Time Directive for junior doctors.

Training posts must provide the necessary clinical exposure but also evidence that
the required supervision and assessments can be achieved.

Acting up as a consultant (AUC)

“Acting up” provides doctors in training coming towards the end of their training with
the experience of navigating the transition from junior doctor to consultant while
maintaining an element of supervision.

Although acting up often fulfills a genuine service requirement, it is not the same as
being a locum consultant. Doctors in training acting up will be carrying out a
consultant’s tasks but with the understanding that they will have a named supervisor
at the hosting hospital and that the designated supervisor will always be available for
support, including out of hours or during on-call work. Doctors in training will need to
follow the rules laid down by the Deanery / LETB within which they work and also
follow the JRCPTB rules which can be found at
www.jrcptb.org.uk/trainingandcert/Pages/Out-of-Programme.

4.2 Teaching and Learning Methods

The curriculum will be delivered through a variety of learning experiences. Trainees
will learn from practice, clinical skills appropriate to their level of training and to their
attachment within the department.

Trainees will achieve the competencies described in the curriculum through a variety
of learning methods. There will be a balance of different modes of learning from
formal teaching programmes to experiential learning ‘on the job’. The proportion of
time allocated to different learning methods may vary depending on the nature of the
attachment within a rotation.

This section identifies the types of situations in which a trainee will learn.

Learning with Peers - There are many opportunities for trainees to learn with their
peers. Local postgraduate teaching opportunities allow trainees of varied levels of
experience to come together for small group sessions. Examination preparation
encourages the formation of self-help groups and learning sets.

Work-Based Experiential Learning - The content of work-based experiential

learning is decided by the local faculty for education but includes active participation
in:
 Medical clinics including specialty clinics. After initial induction, trainees will
review patients in outpatient clinics, under direct supervision. The degree of
responsibility taken by the trainee will increase as competency increases. As

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 133 of 157
 experience and clinical competence increase trainees will assess ‘new’ and
‘review’ patients and present their findings to their clinical supervisor.

 Endoscopy lists including diagnostic/therapeutic gastroscopy. Most trainees are

likely to wish to train in flexible sigmoidoscopy colonoscopy and adequate
resources must be in place to allow the development of the necessary
competencies. For those who wish to pursue more specialised endoscopy
training, programmes in advanced techniques in therapeutic colonoscopy, ERCP
and EUS should be available as part of a designated training programme. In all
endoscopic modalities training should be undertaken in a supervised environment
conducive to learning whereby trainees can develop competencies where the
safety of the patient is of paramount importance. Trainees will be expected to
attend courses in basic endoscopy. Those trainees wishing to train in
colonoscopy will be expected to attend a basic and advanced colonoscopy
course.

 Specialty-specific takes

 Post-take consultant ward-rounds

 Personal ward rounds and provision of ongoing clinical care on specialist medical
ward attachments. Every patient seen, on the ward or in out-patients, provides a
learning opportunity, which will be enhanced by following the patient through the
course of their illness: the experience of the evolution of patients’ problems over
time is a critical part both of the diagnostic process as well as management.
Patients seen should provide the basis for critical reading and reflection of clinical
problems.

 Consultant-led ward rounds. Every time a trainee observes another doctor,

consultant or fellow trainee, seeing a patient or their relatives there is an
opportunity for learning. Ward rounds, including those post-take, should be led by
a consultant and include feedback on clinical and decision-making skills.

 Multi-disciplinary team meetings. There are many situations where clinical

problems are discussed with clinicians in other disciplines. These provide
excellent opportunities for observation of clinical reasoning. Such meetings
include
o X-Ray meetings
o Histology meetings
o Site specific cancer meetings
o Joint surgical meetings
o IBD multi disciplinary meetings
o Nutrition rounds

Trainees have supervised responsibility for the care of in-patients. This includes day-
to-day review of clinical conditions, note keeping, and the initial management of the
acutely ill patient with referral to and liaison with clinical colleagues as necessary.
The degree of responsibility taken by the trainee will increase as competency
increases. There should be appropriate levels of clinical supervision throughout
training with increasing clinical independence and responsibility as learning
outcomes are achieved (see Section 5: Feedback and Supervision).

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Formal Postgraduate Teaching – The content of these sessions are determined by
the local faculty of medical education and will be based on the curriculum. There are
many opportunities throughout the year for formal teaching in the local postgraduate
teaching sessions and at regional, national and international meetings. Many of these
are organised by the Royal Colleges of Physicians.

Suggested activities include:

 A programme of formal bleep-free regular teaching sessions to cohorts of
trainees (e.g. a weekly core training hour of teaching within a Trust)
 Case presentations
 Journal clubs
 Research and audit projects
 Lectures and small group teaching
 Grand Rounds
 Clinical skills demonstrations and teaching
 Critical appraisal and evidence based medicine and journal clubs
 Joint specialty meetings
 Attendance at training programmes organised on a deanery or regional basis,
which are designed to cover aspects of the training programme outlined in this
curriculum.

1. Management: There should be opportunities for trainees to attend

appropriate management meetings (e.g. service review, departmental
meetings and Directorate meetings)
2. Training in the management of acute gastrointestinal bleeding and its
endoscopic management should be available in the rotation for all trainees
3. The post should be used with other posts in the rotation to ensure that a
trainee achieves appropriate training in all areas of gastroenterology and
should include at least I year in a DGH and including 6 months in a
specialised liver post.

Independent Self-Directed Learning -Trainees will use this time in a variety of ways
depending upon their stage of learning. Suggested activities include:
 Reading, including web-based material
 Maintenance of personal portfolio (self-assessment, reflective learning, personal
development plan)
 Audit and research projects
 Reading journals
 Achieving personal learning goals beyond the essential, core curriculum

Formal Study Courses - Time to be made available for formal courses is

encouraged, subject to local conditions of service. Examples of such courses include
Basic upper GI endoscopy (mandatory for all trainees)
Advanced upper GI endoscopy
Basic colonoscopy (mandatory if training in this procedure)
Advanced colonoscopy
Nutrition
Hepatology
Management
Communication
Teaching the Teachers (mandatory for all trainees)

Some courses may be offered by local deaneries as part of a regional generic

teaching programme.

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In addition trainees should be encouraged to attend national and international
specialty meetings.

The following is a checklist of good practice to help Programme Directors ensure that
the above learning experiences are available on individual training sites

1. For continuity of supervision there should be at least two consultant

gastroenterologists based at each site of training
2. There must be no more than one StR per trainer
3. The timetable must include scheduled outpatient sessions (minimum two;
maximum three) and always supervised
4. Ward rounds: A minimum of one trainer led round and one StR led ward
round per week (Max: three ward round sessions)
5. Endoscopy: At least two sessions per week supervised to the appropriate
level and containing the appropriate case mix (dependent upon the trainees’
needs). No more than three sessions should be expected unless the trainee
is participating in an advanced endoscopy training programme.
6. One bleep free session per week to enable trainees to attend regional training
days, carry out audit projects/research and private study.
7. Multidisciplinary Meetings: To include X-ray, surgery, oncology and histology,
with review of both upper and lower GI cases. Upper GI to include
hepatobiliary disease
8. Weekly Grand Round
9. Audit - Included in the timetable.
10. Induction: There should be an induction programme on arrival at a unit which
should include information on unit guidelines and protocols preferably in
electronic format
11. Specified regular appraisal in the job description

4.3 Research
Although not a mandatory component of this training programme, trainees in
gastroenterology are strongly encouraged to consider undertaking a programme of
research.

Trainees who wish to acquire research competencies, in addition to those specified

in their specialty curriculum, may undertake a research project as an ideal way of
obtaining those competencies. For those in specialty training, one option to be
considered is that of taking time out of programme to complete a specified project or
research degree. Applications to research bodies, the deanery (via an OOPR form)
and the JRCPTB (via a Research Application Form) are necessary steps, which are
the responsibility of the trainee. The JRCPTB Research Application Form can be
accessed via the JRCPTB website. It requires an estimate of the competencies that
will be achieved and, once completed, it should be returned to JRCPTB together with
a job description and an up to date CV. The JRCPTB will submit applications to the
relevant SACs for review of the research content including an indicative assessment
of the amount of clinical credit (competence acquisition) which might be achieved.
This is likely to be influenced by the nature of the research (eg entirely laboratory-
based or strong clinical commitment), as well as duration (eg 12 month Masters, 2-
year MD, 3-Year PhD). On approval by the SAC, the JRCPTB will advise the trainee
and the deanery of the decision. The deanery will make an application to the GMC
for approval of the out of programme research. All applications for out of programme
research must be prospectively approved.

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Upon completion of the research period the competencies achieved will be agreed by
the OOP Supervisor, Educational Supervisor and communicated to the SAC,
accessing the facilities available on the JRCPTB ePortfolio. The competencies
achieved will determine the trainee’s position on return to programme; for example if
an ST3 trainee obtains all ST4 competencies then 12 months will be recognised
towards the minimum training time and the trainee will return to the programme at
ST5. This would be corroborated by the subsequent ARCP.

This process is shown in the diagram below:

OOPR Applicant Deanery grant

seeks approval time to go OOP
from Deanery

OOPR Applicant
SAC decide on applies to JRCPTB
research content for OOP approval

OOPR Applicant
obtains SAC decide how many
competencies competencies can be
whilst OOP counted towards minimum
training time

OOP applicant returns to

programme at
appropriate competency
level

Funding will need to be identified for the duration of the research period. Trainees
need not count research experience or its clinical component towards a CCT
programme but must decide whether or not they wish it to be counted on application
to the deanery and the JRCPTB.

A maximum period of 3 years out of programme is allowed and the SACs will
recognise up to 12 months towards the minimum training times. As a general rule,
one clinic or endoscopy session per week will equate to one month of training
recognition over a 12 month period.

4.3 Academic Training

For those contemplating an academic career path, there are now well-defined posts
at all levels in the Integrated Academic Training Pathway (IATP) involving the
National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and the Academy of Medical Sciences
(AMS). For full details see http://www.nccrcd.nhs.uk/intetacatrain and
http://www.academicmedicine.ac.uk/uploads/A-pocket-guide.pdf. Academic trainees
may wish to focus on education or research and are united by the target of a
consultant-level post in a university and/or teaching hospital, typically starting as a
senior lecturer and aiming to progress to readership and professor. A postgraduate
degree will usually be essential (see “out of programme experience”) and academic
mentorship is advised (see section 6.1). Academic competencies have been defined
by the JRCPTB in association with AMS and the Colleges and modes of assessment

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have been incorporated in the latest edition of the Gold Guide (section 7, see
http://www.jrcptb.org.uk/forms/Documents/GoldGuide2009.pdf).

Academic integrated pathways to CCT are a) considered fulltime CCTs as the default
position and b) are run through in nature. The academic programmes are CCT
programmes and the indicative time academic trainees to achieve the CCT is the
same as the time set for non-academic trainees. If a trainee fails to achieve all the
required competencies within the notional time period for the programme, this would
be considered at the ARCP, and recommendations to allow completion of clinical
training would be made (assuming other progress to be satisfactory). An academic
trainee working in an entirely laboratory-based project would be likely to require
additional clinical training, whereas a trainee whose project is strongly clinically
oriented may complete within the “normal” time (see the guidelines for monitoring
training and progress)
http://www.academicmedicine.ac.uk/careersacademicmedicine.aspx. Extension of a
CCT date will be in proportion depending upon the nature of the research and will
ensure full capture of the specialty outcomes set down by the Royal College and
approved by GMC.

All applications for research must be prospectively approved by the SAC and the
regulator, see www.jrcptb.org.uk for details of the process.

5 Assessment
5.1 The Assessment System
The purpose of the assessment system is to:

 enhance learning by providing formative assessment, enabling trainees to receive

immediate feedback, measure their own performance and identify areas for
development;
 drive learning and enhance the training process by making it clear what is
required of trainees and motivating them to ensure they receive suitable training
and experience;
 provide robust, summative evidence that trainees are meeting the curriculum
standards during the training programme;
 ensure trainees are acquiring competencies within the domains of Good Medical
Practice;
 assess trainees’ actual performance in the workplace;
 ensure that trainees possess the essential underlying knowledge required for
their specialty;
 inform the Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP), identifying any
requirements for targeted or additional training where necessary and facilitating
decisions regarding progression through the training programme;
 Identify trainees who should be advised to consider changes of career direction.

Workplace-based assessments will take place throughout the training programme to

allow trainees to continually gather evidence of learning and to provide trainees with
formative feedback. They are not individually summative but overall outcomes from a
number of such assessments provide evidence for summative decision making. The
number and range of these will ensure a reliable assessment of the training relevant
to their stage of training and achieve coverage of the curriculum.

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5.2 Joint Advisory Group of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG)

The Joint Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG) was established in

order to advise on standards for training of endoscopists. The multi-disciplinary
composition of this body, which has representation from the Royal Colleges of
Physicians, Surgeons, Radiologists, Paediatricians (and indeed several other
interested parties), reflects the variety of specialists who both train in as well as
undertake endoscopy. The role of JAG has evolved since the introduction of the
National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme into a body that accredits both the
performance of individual endoscopists and endoscopy units but it has not lost its
basic remit to advise on standard setting for trainees.

With the most substantial input being from medical gastroenterologists,

recommendations from JAG have evolved over the past 10 years. JAG has
suggested that all those training in endoscopy should attend a JAG-approved skills
course. They have produced a series of DOPS forms specifically to assess
formatively (and ultimately in a summative manner) the development of the trainee.
They have suggested indicative numbers of procedures to be performed as well as
defined a level of competence when a trainee can apply for a certificate of
competence in specific modalities of endoscopy. Both the broad concept and the
detail have been importantly influenced by significant input from the SAC in
Gastroenterology - particularly to ensure that aspirational standards are indeed
deliverable.

In essence, JAG advise and the SAC decides. The SAC have accepted all the advice
from JAG on training and, in the 2010 curriculum, have agreed that we should specify
that trainees attain a JAG certificate in each modality of endoscopy that they wish to
pursue. However, each recommendation from JAG is thoroughly discussed at the
SAC. The chair of JAG is a full member of the SAC (and this arrangement is
reciprocated).

5.3 Assessment Blueprint

In the syllabus the “Assessment Methods” shown are those that are appropriate as
possible methods that could be used to assess each competency. It is not expected
that all competencies will be assessed and that where they are assessed not every
method will be used. The ARCP tool will be used to demonstrate that an appropriate
number of assessments have taken place covering the different domains of the
curriculum.

The blueprint is available to all trainees via the ePortfolio. The trainers will also have
access to the ePortfolio and will have access to web-based learning to familiarise
themselves with the blueprint.

5.4 Assessment methods

The following assessment methods are used in the integrated assessment system:

Examinations and Certificates

 The Specialty Certificate Examination in Gastroenterology (SCE)
 The Diploma of MRCP (UK) (Gastroenterology)
 Certificate of successful training in Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure)
Regulations 2000 (IRMER)
 Advanced Life Support Certificate (ALS)

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The Federation of Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK, in association with the
British Society of Gastroenterology, has developed a Specialty Certificate
Examination (SCE). The aim of this national assessment is to assess a trainee’s
knowledge and understanding of the clinical sciences relevant to specialist medical
practice and of common or important disorders to a level appropriate for a newly
appointed consultant. The Specialty Certificate Examination is a prerequisite for
attainment of the CCT.

Information about the SCE, including guidance for candidates, is available on the
MRCP (UK) website www.mrcpuk.org

Trainees who have gained the Certificate in Gastroenterology and who are
recommended for a CCT will be entitled to apply for the post nominal MRCP (UK)
(Gastroenterology).

Workplace-Based Assessments (WPBAs)

 Multi-Source Feedback (MSF)
 mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX)
 Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS)
 Case-Based Discussion (CbD)
 Patient Survey (PS)
 Acute Care Assessment Tool (ACAT)
 Audit Assessment (AA)
 Teaching Observation (TO)

These methods are described briefly below. More information about these methods
including guidance for trainees and assessors is available in the ePortfolio and on the
JRCPTB website www.jrcptb.org.uk. Workplace-based assessments should be
recorded in the trainee’s ePortfolio. The workplace-based assessment methods
include feedback opportunities as an integral part of the assessment process, this is
explained in the guidance notes provided for the techniques.

The Joint Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG) has developed the
DOPS assessments for all endoscopic procedures including both summative and
formative assessment tools. These have been accepted by the SAC as the means of
demonstrating endoscopic competence and maintenance of skills for trainees in
gastroenterology and allied specialties who receive endoscopic training. More
information is available on the JAG website http://www.thejag.org.uk

Multisource Feedback (MSF)

This tool is a method of assessing generic skills such as communication, leadership,
team working, reliability etc, across the domains of Good Medical Practice. This
provides objective systematic collection and feedback of performance data on a
trainee, derived from a number of colleagues. ‘Raters’ are individuals with whom the
trainee works, and includes doctors, administration staff, and other allied
professionals. The trainee will not see the individual responses by raters, feedback is
given to the trainee by the Educational Supervisor.

mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX)

This tool evaluates a clinical encounter with a patient to provide an indication of
competence in skills essential for good clinical care such as history taking,
examination and clinical reasoning. The trainee receives immediate feedback to aid

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 140 of 157
learning. The mini-CEX can be used at any time and in any setting when there is a
trainee and patient interaction and an assessor is available.

Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS)

A DOPS is an assessment tool designed to assess the performance of a trainee in
undertaking a practical procedure, against a structured checklist. The trainee
receives immediate feedback to identify strengths and areas for development.

Case based Discussion (CbD)

The CbD assesses the performance of a trainee in their management of a patient to
provide an indication of competence in areas such as clinical reasoning, decision-
making and application of medical knowledge in relation to patient care. It also
serves as a method to document conversations about, and presentations of, cases
by trainees. The CbD should include discussion about a written record (such as
written case notes, out-patient letter, discharge summary). A typical encounter might
be when presenting newly referred patients in the out-patient department.

Acute Care Assessment Tool (ACAT)

The ACAT is designed to assess and facilitate feedback on a doctor’s performance
during their practice on the Acute Medical Take. Any doctor who has been
responsible for the supervision of the Acute Medical Take can be the assessor for an
ACAT.

Patient Survey (PS)

Patient Survey address issues, including behaviour of the doctor and effectiveness of
the consultation, which are important to patients. It is intended to assess the trainee’s
performance in areas such as interpersonal skills, communication skills and
professionalism by concentrating solely on their performance during one
consultation.

Audit Assessment Tool (AA)

The Audit Assessment Tool is designed to assess a trainee’s competence in
completing an audit. The Audit Assessment can be based on review of audit
documentation OR on a presentation of the audit at a meeting. If possible the trainee
should be assessed on the same audit by more than one assessor.

Teaching Observation (TO)

The Teaching Observation form is designed to provide structured, formative
feedback to trainees on their competence at teaching. The Teaching Observation can
be based on any instance of formalised teaching by the trainee which has been
observed by the assessor. The process should be trainee-led (identifying appropriate
teaching sessions and assessors).

5.5 Decisions on progress (ARCP)

The Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) is the formal method by
which a trainee’s progression through her/his training programme is monitored and
recorded. ARCP is not an assessment – it is the review of evidence of training and
assessment. The ARCP process is described in A Reference Guide for Postgraduate
Specialty Training in the UK (the “Gold Guide” – available from www.mmc.nhs.uk).
Deaneries are responsible for organising and conducting ARCPs. The evidence to be
reviewed by ARCP panels should be collected in the trainee’s ePortfolio.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 141 of 157
As a precursor to ARCPs, JRCPTB strongly recommend that trainees have an
informal ePortfolio review either with their educational supervisor or arranged by the
local school of medicine. These provide opportunities for early detection of trainees
who are failing to gather the required evidence for ARCP.

The ARCP Decision Aid is included in section 5.5, giving details of the evidence
required of trainees for submission to the ARCP panels.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 142 of 157
5.6 ARCP Decision Aid
Blueprint Sections Assessment ST3 ST4 ST5 ST6 ST7
External
a
SCE Specialist Exam
Workplace Based
Assessments
b b
Common mini-CEX / CbD
Competencies
Competency 30% 50% 80% 90% 100%
c
Progression
b b
Basic and Applied mini-CEX / CbD
Science
Competency 30% 50% 80% 90% 100%
c
Progression
b b
Upper GI tract mini-CEX / CbD
disorders
Competency 30% 50% 80% 90% 100%
c
Progression
b b
Intestinal mini-CEX / CbD
disorders
Competency 30% 50% 80% 90% 100%
c
Progression
b b
Hepatology mini-CEX / CbD 3 mini-CEX, and 6 CbD
Competency 30% 50% 80% 90% 100%
c
Progression
h
Nutrition mini-CEX /CbD 3 mini-CEX, 3
h
/DOPs DOP's and 6 CbD

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 143 of 157
Total mini-CEX / 6 6 6 6 6
CbD per year
d
Endoscopy Formative –DOPS Formative x 10 in F-DOPS; F-DOPS; F-DOPS; F-DOPS;
Summative-DOPS
d each modality S-DOPS S-DOPS S-DOPS S-DOPS
d
DOPS 2 2 2 2 2
e
Generic skills MSF Satisfactory Satisfactory
f
Audit assessment 1 1 1 1 1
g
Patient survey Satisfactory Satisfactory
Supervisors report
adequate Y/N

Notes:
a) Specialist Exam: Can be attempted in ST4 onwards, must be achieved for attainment of CCT.
b) Six assessments in total (mini-CEX; CbD) per year to cover requirements, to be guided by the core outcomes blueprint grid. One assessment in each
major domain 1-5 covered during placement, with endoscopic procedures assessed more frequently. If progression is inadequate as evidenced by
WBA’s and supervisor report then ARCP outcome 2 or 3.
c) Indication of percentage of curriculum covered. Will help to identify gaps in training in particular nutrition / hepatology where experience may be
focused into a specific training period.
d) Endoscopy: should have a formal formative DOPS x 10 in all procedures being practiced each year (since all procedures will be directly supervised
this is easily accomplished). Summative DOPS for JAG accreditation can be taken when appropriate. Other procedures should be assessed by a
total of DOPS x 2 annually.
e) MSF should be carried out at end of years 1, 3, and as required. If there are no concerns, two MSF’s over the specialty training would be satisfactory.
If there are areas for improvement, there is the option to add in further MSF’s as necessary.
f) There should be evidence of audit undertaken on an annual basis, which has been assessed by the ES.
g) A patient survey should be carried out during years 2, 4, and as required. If there are no concerns, two Patient Surveys over the period of specialty
training would be satisfactory.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 144 of 157
Advanced Specialist areas

1. Hepatology

1
Blueprint section Assessment Induction Month 6 Month 12
Liver SCE, CbD, mini-
2
transplantation CEX, MSF
Acute liver failure SCE, CbD, mini-
CEX
Hepatitis C SCE, CbD, mini-
CEX
Hepatitis B SCE, CbD, mini-
CEX
Complications of SCE, CbD, mini-
cholestatic liver CEX
disease
Vascular liver SCE, CbD, mini-
disease CEX
Pregnancy SCE, CbD, mini-
associated liver CEX
disease
Liver tumours SCE, CbD, mini-
Benign CEX
Hepatocellular
Cholangio Ca
Intensive care SCE, CbD, mini-
2
CEX, MSF
Competency
3
progression
3
Audit AA
Total 5 10
assessments
required
5 5
Endoscopic Log book, DOP's 10 20
management of
varices

1
Sum of relevant assessments undertaken prior to Advanced Specialist training
2
MSF should be directed to intensive care or multi disciplinary assessment of
malignancy or need for transplantation
3
Review of evidence produced suggesting satisfactory progression (Y/N/ action
required)
4
Evidence of audit involvement should be assessed at month 6 for inception and
month 12 for completion
5
Endoscopic DOP’s should include variceal banding, injection of Histoacryl glue /
thrombin, use of APC for those wishing to undertake endoscopy as a consultant

It is strongly suggested that a log book be kept by the trainee to demonstrate

exposure to the breadth of the curriculum in terms of cases seen in clinic, on the
wards, and in an ITU setting

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 145 of 157
2. Inflammatory bowel disease

1
Blueprint section Assessment Induction Month 6 Month 12
Principles SCE, mini-CEX
Diagnosis SCE, CbD
Management Modified ACAT,
Routine CbD, mini-CEX,
log book
Surgical
Biological
2
Team working MSF
Complex disease CbD, log book
Disease in SCE, mini-CEX,
pregnancy CbD,
Nutrition in IBD SCE, mini-CEX,
CbD, log book
IBD in adolescence SCE, mini-CEX,
CbD
Competency
3
progression
Total assessments 5 10
required
mini-CEX / CbD
Colonoscopy in DOPS Log book >30 Log book >60
patients with IBD
4
Audit

1
Assessments involving IBD cases should be reviewed on commencement of
Advanced Specialist training
2
MSF undertaken between months 4 and 8 using members of MDT and supervisors
3
Review of evidence produced suggesting satisfactory progression (Y/N/ AR action
required)
4
Evidence of audit involvement should be assessed at month 6 for inception and
month 12 for completion

It is strongly advised that a logbook is kept recording all cases seen in clinic / on
wards for review during advanced specialist training.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 146 of 157
3. Nutrition

1 3
Blueprint section Assessment Induction Month 6 Month 12
Enteral nutrition CbD, mini-CEX,
Parenteral nutrition CbD, mini-CEX
Intestinal failure- CbD, mini-CEX
general
Short bowel CbD, mini-CEX,
-IBD
-ischaemia
-jejunostomy/high
output stoma
-jejunum in
continuity with colon
2
MSF
pancreatitis CbD
Post-op. CbD, mini-CEX
complications/
management
Enteric dysmotility CbD, mini-CEX
Eating disorders CbD, mini-CEX
Abdominal CbD, mini-CEX
malignancy/chemo-
radiotherapy
Ethical/legal issues CbD
Total assessments 8 16
required
mini-CEX / CbD
Insertion and DOPS 8 (logbook) 16 (logbook)
removal of parenteral
feeding lines
4
Audit

1
Assessments involving nutrition cases should be reviewed on commencement of
advanced specialist training
2
MSF undertaken between months 4 and 8 using members of MDT and supervisors
3
Review of evidence produced suggesting satisfactory progression (Y/N/ AR action
required)
4
Evidence of audit involvement should be assessed at month 6 for inception and
month 12 for completion

It is strongly advised that a log book is kept recording all cases seen in clinic / on
wards and procedures performed for review through advanced specialist training

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 147 of 157
4. Advanced Endoscopy

1
Blueprint Assessment Induction Month 6 Month 12
section
Endoscopic DOPS, CbD, Accredited in cancers of cancers of
ultrasound MSF diagnostic oesophagus, oesophagus,
upper stomach or rectum, stomach or rectum,
gastrointestinal >25; 75;
endoscopy and sub-epithelial sub-epithelial
preferably lesions, >15; lesions, 40;
flexible
pancreatico-biliary, pancreatico-biliary,
sigmoidoscopy
>25 and FNA, >15 75 and FNA, 50
prior to training
(50% solid (50% solid
pancreatic lesions); pancreatic
>20 DOPS luminal, lesions);
> 10 subepithelial; >40 DOPS luminal,
> 20 pancreatico- > 20 subepithelial;
biliary; > 40 pancreatico-
10 CbD; 1 MSF biliary; 20 CbD

ERCP DOPS, CbD, > 20 >120 procedures; >250 procedures;

MSF procedures; 7 50 DOPS; 10 CbD; 100 DOPS; 20
DOPS 1 MSF CbD

1
Sum of relevant assessments undertaken prior to advanced specialist training.

Completion of this period of training does not necessarily confirm eligibility to practice
in this specialist area independently

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 148 of 157
5.7 Penultimate Year Assessment (PYA)
The penultimate ARCP prior to the anticipated CCT date will include an external
assessor from outside the training programme. JRCPTB and the deanery will
coordinate the appointment of this assessor. While the ARCP will be a review of
evidence, the PYA will include a face-to-face component.

5.8 Complaints and Appeals

The MRCP (UK) office has complaints procedures and appeals regulations
documented in its website which apply to all examinations run by the Royal Colleges
of Physicians.

All workplace-based assessment methods incorporate direct feedback from the

assessor to the trainee and the opportunity to discuss the outcome. If a trainee has a
complaint about the outcome from a specific assessment this is their first opportunity
to raise it.

Appeals against decisions concerning in-year assessments will be handled at

deanery level and deaneries are responsible for setting up and reviewing suitable
processes. If a formal complaint about assessment is to be pursued this should be
referred in the first instance to the chair of the Specialty Training Committee who is
accountable to the regional deanery. Continuing concerns should be referred to the
Associate Dean.

6 Supervision and feedback

This section of the curriculum describes how trainees will be supervised, and how
they will receive feedback on performance.

6.1 Supervision
All elements of work in training posts must be supervised with the level of supervision
varying depending on the experience of the trainee and the clinical exposure and
case mix undertaken. Outpatient and referral supervision must routinely include the
opportunity to personally discuss all cases if required. As training progresses the
trainee should have the opportunity for increasing autonomy, consistent with safe
and effective care for the patient. Local education providers (LEP’s) through their
directors of education / clinical tutors and associated specialty tutors have a
responsibility to ensure that all trainees work under senior supervision by their clinical
/ educational supervisors. This will allow a review of the progression of their
knowledge, skills and behaviours in particular professional conduct and their
maintenance of patient safety will be of paramount importance.

There must be sufficient time in the job plan of educational / clinical supervisors to
provide this level of support to the trainees.

Deaneries and LEPs must ensure that trainees have access to on-line learning
facilities and libraries.

Trainees will at all times have a named Educational Supervisor and Clinical
Supervisor, responsible for overseeing their education. Depending on local
arrangements these roles may be combined into a single role of Educational
Supervisor.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 149 of 157
The responsibilities of supervisors have been defined by GMC in the document
“Operational Guide for the PMETB Quality Framework”. These definitions have been
agreed with the National Association of Clinical Tutors, the Academy of Medical
Royal Colleges and the Gold Guide team at MMC, and are reproduced below:

Educational supervisor
A trainer who is selected and appropriately trained to be responsible for the overall
supervision and management of a specified trainee’s educational progress during a
training placement or series of placements. The Educational Supervisor is
responsible for the trainee’s Educational Agreement.

Clinical supervisor
A trainer who is selected and appropriately trained to be responsible for overseeing a
specified trainee’s clinical work and providing constructive feedback during a training
placement. Some training schemes appoint an Educational Supervisor for each
placement. The roles of Clinical and Educational Supervisor may then be merged.

The Educational Supervisor, when meeting with the trainee, should discuss issues of
clinical governance, risk management and any report of any untoward clinical
incidents involving the trainee. The Educational Supervisor should be part of the
clinical specialty team. Thus if the clinical directorate (clinical director) have any
concerns about the performance of the trainee, or there were issues of doctor or
patient safety, these would be discussed with the Educational Supervisor. These
processes, which are integral to trainee development, must not detract from the
statutory duty of the trust to deliver effective clinical governance through its
management systems.

To provide effective training it is essential that trainers have received appropriate

training. All educational supervisors and members of the STC should receive
adequate training in: -

 the use of all assessment tools

 equality and diversity issues
 supporting the trainee in difficulty
 appraisal skills
 giving effective feedback
 knowledge and use of the curriculum
 setting objectives
 career advice

Clinical supervisors and educational supervisors should have attended a ‘Train the
Trainers’ course.
The Training Programme Director for each region should hold a database of these
competencies and forward this annually to their local deanery as part of the QA
process.

Endoscopy departments involved in training should be assessed by the Joint

Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (JAG) and be identified as sites
appropriate for training. Any shortcomings in the training environment identified by
such an assessment will be fed back to the hospital trust responsible for the unit. If
there are significant concerns the TPD will be informed who will notify the deanery if
training is being compromised.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 150 of 157
The clinical training environments at individual training centres should be reviewed
annually by the STC. Trainees should participate in an annual trainee survey and be
able to report any concerns to the TPD.

The TPD will make an annual return to the deanery as part of the QA framework
The implementation of increasing numbers of formalised assessment tools will
increase the amount of time that all trainers will need to spend with their trainees.
There should be recognition by individual trusts of this requirement and this should
be reflected in the job planning process for all clinical supervisors and educational
supervisors.

Academic trainees are encouraged to identify an academic mentor, who will not
usually be their research supervisor and will often be from outside their geographical
area. The Academy of Medical Sciences organises one such scheme (see
http://www.acmedsci.ac.uk/index.php?pid=91) but there are others and inclusion in
an organised scheme is not a pre-requisite. The Medical Research Society organises
annual meetings for clinician scientists in training (see
http://www.medres.org.uk/j/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid
=1) and this type of meeting provides an excellent setting for trainees to meet
colleagues and share experiences.

Opportunities for feedback to trainees about their performance will arise through the
use of the workplace-based assessments, regular appraisal meetings with
supervisors, other meetings and discussions with supervisors and colleagues, and
feedback from ARCP. Frequent and timely feedback on performance is essential for
successful work-based experiential learning. To train as a physician a doctor must
develop the ability to seek and respond to feedback and clinical practice from a range
of individuals to meet the requirements of Good Medical Practice

6.2 Appraisal
A formal process of appraisals and reviews underpins training. This process ensures
adequate supervision during training, provides continuity between posts and different
supervisors and is one of the main ways of providing feedback to trainees. All
appraisals should be recorded in the ePortfolio

Induction Appraisal
The trainee and educational supervisor should have an appraisal meeting at the
beginning of each post to review the trainee’s progress so far, agree learning
objectives for the post ahead and identify the learning opportunities presented by the
post. Reviewing progress through the curriculum will help trainees to compile an
effective Personal Development Plan (PDP) of objectives for the upcoming post. This
PDP should be agreed during the Induction Appraisal. The trainee and supervisor
should also both sign the educational agreement in the ePortfolio at this time,
recording their commitment to the training process.

Mid-point Appraisal
This meeting between trainee and educational supervisor is mandatory (except when
an attachment is shorter than 6 months), but is encouraged particularly if either the
trainee or educational or clinical supervisor has training concerns or the trainee has
been set specific targeted training objectives at their ARCP. At this meeting trainees
should review their PDP with their supervisor using evidence from the e-portfolio.
Workplace-based assessments and progress through the curriculum can be
reviewed to ensure trainees are progressing satisfactorily, and attendance at

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 151 of 157
educational events should also be reviewed. The PDP can be amended at this
review.

End of Attachment Appraisal

Trainees should review the PDP and curriculum progress with their educational
supervisor using evidence from the ePortfolio. Specific concerns may be highlighted
from this appraisal. The end of attachment appraisal form should record the areas
where further work is required to overcome any shortcomings. Further evidence of
competence in certain areas may be needed, such as planned workplace-based
assessments, and this should be recorded. If there are significant concerns following
the end of attachment appraisal then the programme director should be informed

7 Managing curriculum implementation

This section of the curriculum provides an indication of how the curriculum is
managed locally and within programmes.

The organisation of training programmes for Core / ACCS training and specialist
training in GIM is the responsibility of the postgraduate deaneries.

The deaneries are establishing appropriate programmes for postgraduate medical

training in their regions. These schemes will be run by Schools of Medicine in
England, Wales and Northern Ireland and by Transitional Board Schemes in
Scotland. In this curriculum, they will be referred to as local Faculties for medical
education. The role of the Faculties will be to coordinate local postgraduate medical
training, with terms of reference as follows:

 Oversee recruitment and induction of trainees from Foundation to core

training – CMT or ACCS(M) and from core training into Specialty Training
 Allocate trainees into particular rotations according to their training needs and
wishes
 Oversee the quality of training posts provided locally
 Interface with other Deanery Specialty Training faculties
 Ensure adequate provision of appropriate educational events
 Ensure curriculum implementation across training programmes
 Oversee the workplace – based assessment process within programmes
 Coordinate the ARCP process for trainees
 Provide adequate and appropriate career advice
 Provide systems to identify and assist doctors with training difficulties
 Provide flexible training
 Recognise the potential of specific trainees to progress into an academic
career

Educational programmes to train educational supervisors and assessors in work

placed assessment may be delivered by deaneries, colleges or both.

The quality of endoscopy training will be independently assessed by the JAG through
a series of visits to all endoscopy units which will result in accreditation of training
units for periods of 5 years.

The deanery will monitor the quality of the training experience of the trainees by a
local trainee survey and returns from the annual GMC survey of trainees.

Implementation of the curriculum is the responsibility of the JRCPTB via its specialty
advisory committee (SAC) for Gastroenterology. The SAC is formally constituted with

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 152 of 157
representatives from each SHA in England, from the developed nations and has
trainee and lay representation. This committee supervises and reviews all training
posts in gastroenterology and provides external representatives at Penultimate Year
Assessments. Between them, members of the SAC usually attend PYA's for between
100 and 150 GI trainees a year, thus ensuring the committee has a wide experience
of how the curriculum is being implemented in training centres.

It is the responsibility of the committee Chair and Secretary to ensure that curriculum
developments are communicated to Heads of Specialty Schools, Deanery Specialty
Training Committees and TPD’s. The SAC also produces and administers the
regulations, which govern the curriculum.

The SAC and STC's all have trainee representation. Trainee representatives on the
SAC provide feedback on the curriculum at each of the SAC meetings.

The introduction of the ePortfolio allows members of the SAC to remotely monitor
progress of trainees ensuring that they are under proper supervision and are
progressing satisfactorily.

7.1 Intended use of curriculum by trainers and trainees

This curriculum and ePortfolio are web-based documents which are available from
the Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board (JRCPTB) website
www.jrcptb.org.uk.

The educational supervisors and trainers can access the up-to-date curriculum from
the JRCPTB website and will be expected to use this as the basis of their discussion
with trainees. Both trainers and trainees are expected to have a good knowledge of
the curriculum and should use it as a guide for their training programme.

Each trainee will engage with the curriculum by maintaining a portfolio. The trainee
will use the curriculum to develop learning objectives and reflect on learning
experiences.

7.2 Recording progress

On enrolling with JRCPTB trainees will be given access to the ePortfolio for
Gastroenterology The ePortfolio allows evidence to be built up to inform decisions on
a trainee’s progress and provides tools to support trainees’ education and
development.

The trainee’s main responsibilities are to ensure the ePortfolio is kept up to date,
arrange assessments and ensure they are recorded, prepare drafts of appraisal
forms, maintain their personal development plan, record their reflections on learning
and record their progress through the curriculum.

The supervisor’s main responsibilities are to use ePortfolio evidence such as

outcomes of assessments, reflections and personal development plans to inform
appraisal meetings. They are also expected to update the trainee’s record of
progress through the curriculum, write end-of-attachment appraisals and supervisor’s
reports.

Deaneries, Training Programme Directors, college tutors and ARCP panels may use
the ePortfolio to monitor the progress of trainees for whom they are responsible.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 153 of 157
A logbook of practical procedures should be maintained by the trainee and presented
to the ARCP panel prior the formal review. This allows the STC to confirm adequate
quality of training and ensure an appropriate exposure of the trainee to endoscopic
training opportunities

JRCPTB will use summarised, anonymous ePortfolio data to support its work in
quality assurance.

All appraisal meetings, personal development plans and workplace based

assessments should be recorded in the ePortfolio. Trainees and supervisors should
electronically sign the educational agreement. Trainees are encouraged to reflect on
their learning experiences and to record these in the ePortfolio. Reflections may be
private or shared.

All ePortfolio content should be linked to curriculum competencies in order to provide

evidence towards acquisition of these competencies. Trainees can add their own
self-assessment ratings to record a personal view of progress. The aims of self-
assessment are:
 To provide the means for reflection and evaluation of current practice
 To inform discussions with supervisors to help both gain insight and assist in
developing personal development plans.
 To identify shortcomings between experience, competency, and areas
defined in the curriculum to help plan future training requirements

Supervisors can sign-off and comment on curriculum competencies to build up a

picture of progression and to inform ARCP panels.

8 Curriculum Review and Updating

The SAC in Gastroenterology will oversee the evaluation of this curriculum and
portfolio. The curriculum is regarded as a living document, and the committee will
ensure that it is able to respond swiftly to new developments. The outcome regular
evaluation will inform the future development of the curriculum.

The SAC for Gastroenterology will consult widely within the gastroenterological
community and will also involve trainees, lay representatives, and patients in the
review process.

The new curriculum will be reviewed after one year to ensure deliverability and new
developments. A formal review is planned after three years.

Evaluation of the curriculum will ascertain

 Learner response to the curriculum
 Modification of attitudes and perceptions
 Learner acquisition of knowledge and skills
 Learners behavioural change
 Change in organisational practice

Evaluation methods will include

 Trainee questionnaire
 College representative and Programme Director questionnaire
 Focused discussions with educational supervisors, trainees, programme
Directors and Postgraduate Deans

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 154 of 157
Monitoring will be the responsibility of the Programme Directors within deaneries

Trainee involvement in curriculum review will be facilitated through

 Involvement of trainees in local training committees
 Involvement of trainee representative on SAC committee
 Informal feedback during appraisal and local review of programme.

9 Equality and diversity

The Royal Colleges of Physicians will comply, and ensure compliance, with the
requirements of equality and diversity legislation, such as the:
 Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000
 Disability Discrimination Act 1995
 Human Rights Act 1998
 Employment Equality (Age) Regulation 2006
 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Act 2001
 Data Protection Acts 1984 and 1998

The Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians believes that equality of

opportunity is fundamental to the many and varied ways in which individuals become
involved with the Colleges, either as members of staff and Officers; as advisers from
the medical profession; as members of the Colleges' professional bodies or as
doctors in training and examination candidates. Accordingly, it warmly welcomes
contributors and applicants from as diverse a population as possible, and actively
seeks to recruit people to all its activities regardless of race, religion, ethnic origin,
disability, age, gender or sexual orientation.

Deanery quality assurance will ensure that each training programme complies with
the equality and diversity standards in postgraduate medical training as set by GMC.

Compliance with anti-discriminatory practice will be assured through:

 monitoring of recruitment processes;
 ensuring all College representatives and Programme Directors have attended
appropriate training sessions prior to appointment or within 12 months of
taking up post;
 Deaneries must ensure that educational supervisors have had equality and
diversity training (at least as an e learning module) every 3 years
 Deaneries must ensure that any specialist participating in trainee
interview/appointments committees or processes has had equality and
diversity training (at least as an e module) every 3 years.
 ensuring trainees have an appropriate, confidential and supportive route to
report examples of inappropriate behaviour of a discriminatory nature.
Deaneries and Programme Directors must ensure that on appointment
trainees are made aware of the route in which inappropriate or discriminatory
behaviour can be reported and supplied with contact names and numbers.
Deaneries must also ensure contingency mechanisms are in place if trainees
feel unhappy with the response or uncomfortable with the contact individual.
 monitoring of College Examinations;
 ensuring all assessments discriminate on objective and appropriate criteria
and do not unfairly disadvantage trainees because of gender, ethnicity, sexual
orientation or disability (other than that which would make it impossible to
practise safely as a physician). All efforts shall be made to ensure the
participation of people with a disability in training.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 155 of 157
In order to meet its obligations under the relevant equal opportunities legislation,
such as the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000, the MRCP(UK) Central Office,
the Colleges’ Examinations Departments and the panel of Examiners have adopted
an Examination Race Equality Action Plan. This ensures that all staff involved in
examination delivery will have received appropriate briefing on the implications of
race equality in the treatment of candidates.

All Examiner nominees are required to sign up to the following statement in the
Examiner application form “I have read and accept the conditions with regard to the
UK Race Relations Act 1976, as amended by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act
2000, and the Disabilities Discrimination Acts of 1995 and 2005 as documented
above.”

In order to meet its obligations under the relevant equal opportunities legislation such
as the Disability Discrimination Acts 1995 and 2005, the MRCP(UK) Management
Board is formulating an Equality Discrimination Plan to deal with issues of disability.
This will complement procedures on the consideration of special needs which have
been in existence since 1999 and were last updated by the MRCP(UK) Management
Board in January 2005. MRCP(UK) has introduced standard operating procedures to
deal with the common problems e.g. Dyslexia/Learning disability; Mobility difficulties;
Chronic progressive condition; Blind/Partially sighted; Upper limb or back problem;
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI); Chronic recurrent condition (e.g. asthma, epilepsy);
Deaf/Hearing loss; Mental Health difficulty; Autism Spectrum Disorder (including
Asperger Syndrome); and others as appropriate. The Academic Committee would be
responsible for policy and regulations in respect of decisions on accommodations to
be offered to candidates with disabilities.

The Regulations introduced to update the Disability Discrimination Acts and to

ensure that they are in line with EU Directives have been considered by the
MRCP(UK) Management Board. External advice was sought in the preparation of the
updated Equality Discrimination.

Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010 (amendments August 2013) Page 156 of 157
10 Acknowledgements

The members of the SAC in Gastroenterology and of the British Society of

Gastroenterology Training Committee gave valuable advice at all stages of
the development of this curriculum and commented critically but constructively
on successive drafts. Special thanks are due to the chair of the Training
Committee, Dr Martin Lombard.

There was wide consultation within the specialty as outlined in the Introduction
to this document but much is owed to all those who attended the
Gastroenterology Curriculum Conference at the Royal College of Physicians
of London on 6th March 2009. The curriculum is very much more than a
revision of the existing document. It is a radical re-design of a programme of
training which is forward-looking and has the purpose of producing highly-
trained specialists with knowledge, skills and behaviours we believe will be
very relevant to contemporary clinical practice from 2015 onwards. The
framework of the present document emerged from this conference and a debt
of gratitude is extended to all those who came along on the day.

Many others too numerous to mention individually have commented on drafts

but those who have done the serious work of writing sections of the present
document include:

Professor Roger Barton

Dr Mark Hudson
Dr Jeremy Nightingale
Dr Penny Neild
Dr Tim Orchard
Dr Edwin Swarbrick

To each of them a huge thank you……..but definitely not forgetting:

Dr Tony Ellis (Secretary SAC)

Dr Ian Forgacs (Chair SAC)

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