Watch The Presentation
Presentation Description
Institution: Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney - NSW, Australia
Training institutions are increasingly recognising the value of time-variable training (TVT) to support flexibility, sustainability, inclusivity, and wellbeing in surgical education. This study reflects on the initial implementation of TVT within the ANZSVS Vascular SET program, drawing from the lived experience of a 0.8 FTE (full time equivalent) trainee in a single tertiary centre.
Methods:
Themes identified from a critical realist literature synthesis were used to guide a structured reflection on the experiences of a current SET3 trainee, incorporating feedback from the trainee, supervisors, peers and other stakeholders.
Results:
Reflections over a six-month period revealed positive outcomes for the trainee, including [e.g., sustained operative exposure, research opportunities, improved work-life balance], though some barriers were identified [e.g., reduced continuity of care, scheduling complexity]. Supervisors reported that challenges were mitigated by adequate staffing and clear handover protocols. Peers noted preserved clinical safety and learning continuity. Limitations include the standalone nature of the 0.8 FTE role without a matched job-share.
Conclusions:
This early experience supports the feasibility of TVT within the Vascular SET curriculum, with favourable feedback from all stakeholder groups. Further exploration and piloting of scalable, adaptable TVT models are needed to inform broader adoption within the vascular surgical training program.
Speakers
Authors
Authors
Dr Carina Cutmore - , Dr Bethany Stavert - , Ass. Prof Sarah Aitken -

