June 2023 saw an exceptionally high proportion of Outcome 5s (incomplete evidence) issued at the annual review of competency progression (ARCP) for GP Trainees in Yorkshire and the Humber (Y&H) Deanery. These outcomes created considerable time, administrative and financial costs for the deanery. Additionally, it was believed that receiving non-standard outcomes at ARCP would be detrimental to trainee wellbeing. All GP Trainees in Y&H Deanery who received an Outcome 5 at their ARCP in June 2023 were surveyed. They were asked to report their experience of receiving this outcome with reference to their wellbeing. The survey also sought to understand the reasons for this rise in non-standard outcomes to guide quality improvement work within the deanery. Trainee perspectives revealed through this survey have guided reforms within the deanery to the structure and content of teaching and resources for GP trainees. It is believed these findings may be of similar value to other educators. 47% of eligible trainees responded to the survey. It was significantly reported that receiving an Outcome 5 felt stressful. However, trainees also reported that the time and instruction given upon receiving Outcome 5 was adequate, and they felt well supported by their educational supervisors. Preparation for ARCP was described as a neutral activity. The most frequent causes for receiving Outcome 5 were as follows: accessing and evidencing Basic Life Support (BLS) training, misunderstanding Safeguarding Requirements, incorrectly completing Form R and portfolio evidence not being seen by assessors. Further detail on these issues is described in the report below.
Keywords: ARCP; Outcome 5; education; trainee experience.