All new F1 doctors are required to attend shadowing in Wessex immediately prior to starting F1. You will be paid for this shadowing time. You will have a shadowing contract separate from your F1 contract. Shadowing usually last for around a week. Your new employer will contact you with more details.
Aims of shadowing
- Orientate F1s to the hospital where they will be working
- Improve confidence before starting F1 training
- Prepare for the clinical and educational challenges of F1
- Find our how specific posts and teams work
What to expect
Each hospital will tailor their shadowing programme to their local work environment and will usually include:
- Introduction and orientation to the hospital
- Several days of ward-based shadowing of current foundation doctors
- An acute illness management course
- Explanation of local clinical policies (such antibiotic prescribing)
- NHS mandatory training (such as fire training, infection control)
- Opportunity to meet key education and clinical staff (including a buddy or mentor)