Abstract

In 2014, after years of planning and discussion, AGES formally introduced the Fellowship in the Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society (AGES) Training Program in Gynaecological Endoscopy.

The purpose of AGES Fellowship is to standardise the advanced endoscopic training that occurs in multiple facilities throughout Australasia, providing a framework for trainers, standardising training facilities and assuring the quality and competence of graduates.

The AGES Society accredited training program is undertaken over a two year period in an accredited training facility in line with the curriculum.

Trainees completing this program qualify for credentialing up to the highest level of endoscopic competence as defined by RANZCOG/AGES.

Fellowship training can only take place at an AGES accredited training unit under the direction of one training director. Each trainee must be under the supervision of at least two training supervisors over the period of their training.

Currently there are 16 AGES accredited training units, 14 in Australia and 2 in New Zealand.

Trainee applications for AGES accredited training programs open in February of each year, for program approval for the subsequent year. Applications are reviewed by the AGES Education Subcommittee.

Interviews for training positions are conducted at the time of the AGES Annual Scientific Meeting. The interview panel  consists of the Chair of the AGES Education Subcommittee, appointed members of the AGES Executive, a trainee representative and representatives of the units providing AGES accredited training program positions in that year. Other members of the panel may be co-opted at the discretion of the Chair.

Directors of training of an accredited training program may recruit any applicant on an individual and discretionary basis. The AGES Society is not responsible for individual applicant placement, but merely facilitates placement and interview processes.

Ultimately, AGES’s goal is  to produce gynaecological endoscopists who can work across a broad range of fields involving minimally invasive techniques, support other specialists in their work, conduct teaching, training and research, and act in consultative and advisory roles to promote  minimally invasive surgery and shape health policy.