A very friendly department to work in, with plenty of senior support available. Strong focus on teaching and developing skills, felt like a very well supported training post. Never felt afraid to ask questions, and was given a variety of responsibilities which felt well balanced between ward admin and clinical exposure/learning opportunities. Monthly meetings with opportunity to give feedback, which for the most part where possible was listened to and acted upon. The rota was sent well in advance, however was often subject to last minute change. Also quite an intense SHO rota with the frequency of on call shifts - the department say they are working on this for future rotations.

Covers 2 acute wards and 1 elective ward. Doctors usually divided into 3 teams each with their own list of patients, however if staffing low or uneven between teams this is less clear cut. Primarily junior led on the wards, with junior led ward rounds. Support available from Ortho registrars for orthopaedic issues, and Orthogeriatric registrars and consultants some days for medical issues, however often has to be actively sought out as the Orthogeriatric seniors also cover their own medical ward and Orthopaedic seniors are usually in clinic or theatre. Overnight senior support is non resident registrar. Well staffed by junior doctors most of the time, which allows for some discussion with colleagues and support if unsure about anything. Very comfortable doctors office between the 2 acute wards. Ward staff are very friendly once they get to know you. Occasional opportunities to assist in theatre. Departmental teaching scheduled weekly, actually happens approximately 1-2x per month.

Pros - DGH so fairly chill compared to bigger hospitals quick ambulance handovers - no stacking amazing nurses - can bleed, cannulate, male catheters and ABGs. New build in 2023 Has paediatrics - currently not a separate area, no observation bay. Flexibility for SDT and study leave generally quite good. Really happy for juniors / non-trainees to get stuck into big cases, so lots of opportunities to do new procedures Cons - not much trauma reliant on seniors who haven't done RCEM exams / training programs. The standard of shop floor supervision can be a bit patchy. No overnight consultant. No teaching for juniors brutal rota for SHOs