“Junior Doctors” in Nephrology in France: first feedback

Abstract

Medical education in France has undergone several major reforms in recent years. In 2017, the reform of the third cycle of medical studies was implemented. This particularly affected nephrology. The reform introduced a new status of “junior doctor”. Its main objective is to ensure the transition from intern to senior doctor. The “Syndicat National des Internes de Néphrologie” (SNIN) conducted a survey to take stock of this new status in our specialty. The respondents were contacted through their city referents. We received 53 completed questionnaires from Nephrology junior-doctors with an average age of 29 years from all over France. The choice of assignment was satisfactory in 93% of cases. The activity of these juniors-doctors was mainly oriented towards clinical nephrology or was mixed, with the possibility of own consultations for almost all residents. The on-call or nightshift activity of the junior-doctors was mainly concentrated in their home department, with only one third of them working as substitute. Their weekly working hours were substantial (mostly between 45 and 65 hours/week), with a significant number exceeding the legal limit. Overall, supervision was considered satisfactory. Very few residents had time for research or theorical-learning, although some gave lessons and received training mainly through conferences. Progress in performing renal biopsies was substantial, in contrast to central venous catheter placement and peritoneal dialysis management, where progress was judged to be weak.