RELAZIONE: Workforce specialist practice challenges in Europe

In the light of the recent changes made to the work timetables i.e. EWTD: European working time directive, the ever increasing female presence in the health care service, with obvious repercussions on the management of working time, the constantly increasing volume of notions, both technical and practical to be acquired and the ever-increasing volume of technological innovations, necessitate an adequate and constant updating. All of which gives rise to the need for the most homogeneous specialist preparation throughout the European nations as possible in order, not only to obtain the highest possible “standard of care”, but also to make for a standardized quality control. Therefore, in the light of these ever increasing requirements, the effectiveness of new methods of training is now under evaluation. Indeed, one such example for theoretic knowledge is the widespread use of e-learning, making it possible to integrate a traditional theoretical approach with self-managed means. As to practical skills, studies are ongoing to elaborate systems that allow for their acquisition: drills and simulated training will shorten learning curves and increase performance and critical thinking required in clinical practice. Therefore, we are engaged in the process of analyzing the various opportunities available in Europe at present, as well as the possible innovations and/or improvements to this aim, so as to ensure a continuous preparation and training of specialists in Ob&Gyn and, consequently, a high and homogeneous quality of care that will facilitate the exchange of specialists and trainees between the various locations.