Dear All,
The last few months have been a busy time for the Joint Faculty. There have been several changes within the Board since I have taken over the role of Dean. Dr Jennifer Hastings has taken over the role of chair of the Training Committee. Dr Peter Moran is the incoming Chair of Education and Dr Catherine Nix is the incoming chair of the of the Credentials Committee. Dr Mags Doherty is the new honorary secretary. I would like to thank them in advance for the work they will be doing for the Joint Faculty, but also for all the work they have already done to improve and enhance ICM training in Ireland. I would also like to thank Dr Andrew Westbrook for the excellent work he did as Dean in the last three years.
Much of the Joint Faculty’s recent attention has been focused on issues arising from the changes to the anaesthesiology CSCST. Following discussions with the CAI, the Joint Faculty and numerous stakeholders, including those working in model 3 hospitals, I am hopeful that the working groups that have emerged will go a long way to addressing the legitimate concerns raised by our anaesthesiology and intensive care colleagues around Ireland.
The Joint Faculty is also looking ahead and exploring some new aspects of training. We have convened a working group to explore the implementation of workplace based assessments as part of our competency based training program. We are also in the planning stage of postgraduate study days for JFICMI trainees. Furthermore, a recent change to the FJFICMI examination eligibility was approved at our September board meeting. With this change, doctors will be eligible to sit the Fellowship examination on completion of 8 months of supervised structured modular training in units accredited for training by the JFICMI.
And a last few announcements.
- Prof Ger Curley and Dr Aisling McMahon continue to steer the fortnightly National Intensive Care Grand Round series. While the 6pm slot may not suit everyone, I encourage you all to attend as often as is possible. The lectures are a reliably excellent source of learning.
- Applications for the Paediatric CCM posts closes on November 10th. See the JFICMI website for further information.
- There are 3 vacant posts on the Joint Faculty Board and nominations for election to the Board (2 adult ICM reps, 1 PICM reps) have been announced.
- We have recently completed recruitment to our July 2025 training posts. Successful candidates will soon be notified about post allocations.
Finally, I hope to meet lots of you at the upcoming ICSI meeting in Kilkenny on November 15-16th.
Best wishes
Dr Enda O’ Connor