‘Everyone’s nice, but …’: A qualitative exploration of trainees' experiences of postgraduate geriatric medicine training in Australia

Objective: To understand the experiences of trainees who undertake geriatric medicine advanced training in Australia. Methods: In this qualitative study, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with geriatric medicine advanced trainees. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach and data collection ceased when thematic saturation was achieved. Results: Thirteen trainees participated. Trainees enjoyed the training program, supported each other and felt prepared for independent practice as a geriatrician. However, they noted the variability of supervision and feedback practices, and educational opportunities afforded to them across different clinical learning environments. They felt unable to give feedback on their training. The research project and concerns about employment after training were also substantial sources of stress. Conclusions: While geriatric medicine advanced trainees reported positively on much of their training, areas for improvement could include improved training for supervisors, improved support for research projects and more robust mechanisms for providing feedback.