The profile of the Diploma in Anaesthesia in South Africa

Abstract

Background: South Africa faces a shortage of anaesthetists, particularly in rural areas. The Diploma in Anaesthesia (DA) was created to address this gap, but its role may now serve as a preparatory step for specialist training. This study assessed DA graduates’ career paths, perceived value of the diploma, geographical distribution and self-perceived clinical confidence.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted via virtual response to a questionnaire using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap^®). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.
Results: One hundred and ninety-two diplomates responded. Most DA candidates practised anaesthesia, with 44% working as DA anaesthetists and 41% pursuing the specialist route. Most candidates (60%) practised in urban areas, particularly in Gauteng (49%) and the Western Cape (17%). Eighty-six per cent of respondents viewed the DA as a step within the Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists (FCA) curriculum. Most respondents felt the DA tested their competence (86.5%), safety (88%) and skills and knowledge (94.8%).
Conclusion: Most diplomates practise within the urban setting, potentially limiting the diploma’s value in enriching the quality of anaesthesia provided in rural areas. High perceptions of the DA’s value in testing competence and safety suggest its continued relevance in anaesthesia training. The view that the DA is a preparatory step within the FCA process indicates a need for ongoing evaluation of the DA curriculum and its alignment with current workforce demands.
Contribution: This research will contribute to the optimisation of the DA, enhancing its utility for its intended purpose or improving its structure to better align with its current application.