SP3.2.4 Creating sub-specialty emergency surgical care and changing consultant working patterns improves consultant morale and stress levels

Abstract Aims General surgery consultants have some of the highest rates burnout. Ever increasing emergency general (EGS) admissions playing a major role in this. A move to create split sub-speciality cover consisting upper GI/HPB (UGI) and colorectal (CR) has been suggested improve EGS outcomes. We assessed impact changing on-call working patterns had on perceived consultant stress levels, manageability their workload patient length stay (LOS). Methods Consultant call changed from an individual covering four consecutive weekdays two (one UGI/HPB, one CR) sharing weekdays. Consultants were surveyed assess this change levels. Admission numbers LOS also analysed for all over 6-month period either side rota change. Results 89% who responded chose work new format. 78% felt it improved workload, decreased levels quality care. There was no number (862 vs 866) or time periods studied (Pre: 0D: 8%, 1 – 2D 38%, 3 4D 19%, >4D 34%. Post: 0D 40%, 17%, > 35%). Conclusions shorter sub-specialty duties reduced surgeons without adverse patient’s stay.