ABSTRACT
So what is it all about then? This being a doctor and this training lark, what is the nub of it all? I am still working at the answer but thought I could share with you how far I had got. I am at an age when looking backwards tends to be more productive than peering into crystal balls. A recent very enjoyable reunion promised to enlighten me just a little on what I had been doing as a trainer all of these years. You see a group of my registrars/trainees took me out for meal at my favourite restaurant recently. Since becoming a trainer in 1976, 1 have been privileged to train 21 doctors, as well as an eight-year stint as a course organiser. More than half actually came and several others sent their regrets and regards. We moved round after each course so by the end of the evening I had had a chance to ask everyone what it was they remembered as the most significant training experience. All of them, in some form or other, said friendship, a feeling of being welcomed and most talked of a deeper understanding as to why patients behave the way they do. The more honest ones remembered the somewhat ad hoc planning and the distinct lack of a portfolio philosophy, but all mentioned one word that fills me with self indulgent pride, they talked of enthusiasm. Many went on to add that their training year was a very happy one. My last registrar sat with my trainee 1977 vintage and exclaimed that she was only three then! And at least they both had happy memories.
