INITIAL OUTCOMES FROM THE SOUTH WEST BCSP ACCREDITATION PROGRAMME

Introduction

Age extension of the bowel cancer screening programme (BCSP) has increased the demand for accredited BCSP colonoscopists in the south west of England. A South West BCSP accreditation programme has been established to address this demand.

Methods

South West Endoscopy Training Academy (SWETA) (Health Education England - South West) in collaboration with NHS England/Improvement - South West and Public Health England - South West established the South West BCSP accreditation programme. Ideal numbers of screening colonoscopists were calculated based on minimum colonoscopy requirement per screener and expected invites rates (including age extension) over the next 2 years. Centres were asked to identify potential screeners to join the programme. The programme consisted of a virtual half day course followed by one day hands on preparatory BCSP course delivered by established faculty and BCS assessors. The virtual session covered polyp assessment and decision making. A preparatory day covered scope handling, therapeutic skills and tips to pass the accreditation assessment. After the preparatory day, if the faculty felt that the delegates would benefit from additional 1:1 mentorship (with additional hands on experience on the faculty’s BCSP lists), this was arranged. A post accreditation survey was conducted.

Results

A total of 13 BCS candidates (7 gastroenterologists, 4 colorectal surgeons, 1 clinical endoscopist, 1 GP endoscopist) applied for the programme. The virtual half day was attended by 12 of them. To date, the preparatory course has been attended by 11 candidates. Out of these, 4 were given 1:1 mentorship and 6 were advised that they are ready for the assessment. A total of 8 candidates have attended the accreditation days with a pass rate of 86%. All delegates who were advised that they were ready for the accreditation assessment passed. The national average pass rate is 60%. Two candidates are awaiting accreditation assessment and one decided to take the National Endoscopy Date (NED) route. A post accreditation survey was conducted and was filled by 5 responders. 100% of responders indicated an increased confidence and feeling prepared to pass the BCSP accreditation exam after attending the programme. All of responders mentioned an increased confidence in managing polyps post course.

Conclusions

Data from the SW BCSP Accreditation programme suggests that the programme better prepares aspirant screeners for the accreditation exam, with pass rates exceeding the national average.