Training Programme
Aims of the Senior Clinical Training Scholarships (SCTS)
The purpose of this Training Programme is to enable the Senior Clinical Training Scholar (SCTS) to gain a greater understanding of applied sciences related to neurology, and to develop the skills to be able to pursue a career in clinical neurology in both small and large animals. The scholar should also develop a critical approach to the scientific literature, be aware of the principles, benefits and limitations associated with evidence based medicine and to start to appreciate factors involved in scientific investigations.
The Scholar will be under the direct supervision of one of the Boarded Clinical Neurologists, either Paul Freeman or Lisa Alves.
Duration
One year in the first instance, renewable for periods of one year up to a total of three years.
Time Allocation
The majority of the 3 year programme will be spent working in the Hospital under the direction of the diplomates. The degree of responsibility assumed by the SCTS will be appropriate to the level of experience, with a gradual lessening of direct supervision as the residency progresses. Additional time will be spent with anaesthesia, internal medicine, clinical and general pathology, ophthalmology and diagnostic imaging services either at the Queen's Veterinary School Hospital or elsewhere as an externship. The SCTS will participate in the neurology emergency service with senior support appropriate to the stage of training.
A minimum of 10 weeks per year will be spent off clinics, during which time a clinical research investigation and case report need to be prepared for publication in order to satisfy the credentials requirements of the ECVN. 4 weeks per year will also be allowed for annual leave. Resources
This SCTS programme will be based at The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge. The Hospital facilities include: · Fully equipped and staffed diagnostic facilities for the examination and treatment of small and large animal and equine medical and surgical conditions.
Two large animal and five small animal theatres, with extensive anaesthetic and monitoring equipment · Diagnostic imaging capabilities including X-ray, MRI, CT and ultrasound · Fully staffed nursing wards and intensive care facilities · On site clinical pathology and histopathological staff and laboratories · A well-stocked veterinary library and access to the local human teaching hospital (Addenbrooke's) library. · Easily accessible computer and internet facilities
Regular (weekly) journal clubs, as well as rounds in neuropathology and neuroimaging are held within the department, as well as daily resident rounds within the clinic.
Departmental Structure and SCTS Training
The Department has well-established and highly successful SCTS programmes in neurology and other disciplines, with an outstanding achievement for specialist qualifications of the European Colleges.
Teaching and Continuing Professional Development
The SCTS will be encouraged to participate in final year clinical teaching. He or she will be expected to contribute to seminars, practicals and case rounds. This will provide the opportunity for the development of seminar presentation techniques, supervision of students performing neurology, clinical case management and continuous assessment of students.
The SCTS will be encouraged to attend the day release courses organised by the University of Cambridge on teaching and learning in higher education. These courses deal with education methods (lectures, seminars and small group teaching etc.) for lecturers involved in tertiary education. Scholars have to prepare and attend presentations given by and to members of the department for critical appraisal by colleagues in the Hospital. In addition to this, continuing education presentations to veterinary surgeons and nurses will be a part of the SCTS programme.
Research Programme and Publications
Clinically orientated research to advance the understanding and management of neurology in small animals is an important and vital aspect of the SCTS training. The SCTS will be allocated time during the first and second year to complete the clinical research project.
The SCTS will be expected to prepare and publish at least two scientific papers in refereed journals during the programme. The SCTS will also be encouraged to attend conferences, in particular the European College of Veterinary Neurology, and British Veterinary Neurology Society held annually, and to present papers at such congresses.
Examinations
The qualification that the applicant will study for is: The Diploma of the European College of Veterinary Neurology