OBJECTIVES. To examine the demographics, professional background, progress, and aspirations of anaesthesia trainees in Hong Kong.

DESIGN. Anonymous questionnaire consisting of 56 items grouped into the areas of demographics, and anaesthetic and postanaesthetic training. Eight of the items were open questions. Descriptive analyses were undertaken for the closed items.

SETTING. Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists, Hong Kong.

PARTICIPANTS. All trainees.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES. Demographic data, aspects of training, supervision, working environment, career aspirations, job satisfaction, and morale.

RESULTS. The response rate was 77%. The various problems highlighted by respondents included the need for more input and feedback into individual training programmes, the lack of senior support, and the need for more relevant and examination-orientated courses and workshops. Unsatisfactory aspects of the specialty reported were the lack of control over work routines, relationships with surgeons, boredom, and the poor public image of the specialty. Eighty-four percent of respondents reported having reasonable to good job satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS. Ongoing benefits could be derived from enhancing communication between trainees and the Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists, through appropriate channels for trainee feedback.

Key words: Anesthesiology, education; Career choice; Decision making; Education, medical, graduate

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