Postgraduate rheumatology training programmes define the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for physicians to become specialists in rheumatology. In some countries there is a standardised approach, but in others the programme content and delivery can vary between different regions and training providers. There are also differences between countries. Since specialists frequently move and work internationally, there is a need for a European standard that defines key aspects.
The new EULAR points-to-consider were developed by a multidisciplinary task force of 23 health professionals and patient representatives from EULAR and UEMS, and completed in line with EULAR standardised operating procedures. The group looked at 132 different training courses to see where there were similarities and differences, and used these to develop suggestions for a common set of expected knowledge, skills, and behaviours for trainee rheumatologists.
The paper – published on 15 May 2023 in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases – is split into three key areas. First, an overarching framework lays out the need for medical expertise as the main goal and foundation of any training programme. This is followed by 28 competencies split across seven domains. The domains define broad areas that rheumatology trainees should master, from basic activities such as how to physically examine a patient in a routine examination to dealing with medical emergencies. The competencies also include diagnosis and management of individual rheumatic diseases, plus specific situations and patient characteristics that may affect management, such as pregnancy or the presence of comorbidities. The paper also sets out the need for training in how to establish relationships with both patients and colleagues, with the aim of fostering effective communication and interdisciplinary cooperation. Finally, the last domain includes research and training – both for an individual's ongoing learning plan and continuing medical education throughout their career, and to ensure that they can critically appraise research and share relevant knowledge with patients and colleagues.
EULAR and the UEMS hope that these new points will contribute to harmonising training across Europe, and ultimately to a common level of knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours for the next generation of rheumatologists.
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About EULAR
EULAR is the European umbrella organisation representing scientific societies, health professional associations and organisations for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). EULAR aims to reduce the impact of RMDs on individuals and society, as well as improve RMD treatments, prevention, and rehabilitation. To this end, EULAR fosters excellence in rheumatology education and research, promotes the translation of research advances into daily care, and advocates for the recognition of the needs of those living with RMDs by EU institutions.
