The Yorkshire Modular Training Programme©:: a model for structured training and quality assurance in obstetrics and gynaecology

Recent changes in postgraduate education have highlighted the need for structured training to ensure quality in training and optimize patient care. In Yorkshire, a 'modular' approach to postgraduate education in obstetrics and gynaecology has been adopted through the Yorkshire Modular Training Programme (YMTP). The curriculum for trainees is divided into 'modules' organized over five years. This provides a comprehensive educational package covering all aspects of obstetrics and gynaecology for trainees in the specialty. The YMTP provides a framework for region-wide integration and ownership of responsibility for teaching and training. It also provides quality assurance in education throughout the region and provides an 'educational continuum' in which the different modules work together to meet the educational requirements of the trainees. It also aims to integrate 'training' and 'education' for the trainees. This paper describes the organization of the programme including its educational principles. It discusses its strengths and weaknesses. It provides a useful framework for postgraduate education that could be used by other regions.