1. Introductory interview
- Introduction to the assessment team, consisting of two practising anaesthetists
- Explanation of the purpose and program of the performance assessment
- Clarity of the reported doctor’s previous training and experience
2. Observation during surgery
The assessors observe the anaesthetist’s endoscopy list and consider:
- interviewing and counselling
- physical examination
- humanistic qualities and professionalism
- clinical judgement
- organisation and efficiency
- overall competence.
3. Interviews with staff
The assessors interview the Practice Manager, one scrub nurse, two recovery anaesthesia nurses, one
gastrointestinal surgeon and one gastroenterologist. Staff acknowledge a change in the anaesthetist’s performance over the past 12 months, specifically:
- poor record keeping
- infrequent and inaccurate recording
- shaky at the end of a long day
- hesitant to give more anaesthetic agent at inductions
- decline in cannulation skills.
4. General interview
This is a continuation of the introductory interview. The anaesthetist is questioned on:
- techniques that had not been observed during the site visit
- participation in quality improvement activities and attendance at ANZCA or ASA annual scientific meetings.
5. Recommendations
If the anaesthetist is found to have performed satisfactorily, the Performance Committee may decide that no further action is required.
However, if found to have performed unsatisfactorily, several recommendations could be made to help bolster performance deficiencies such as:
- enrolment in a structured Continuing Development Program
- neuro-psychometric testing to assess cognitive abilities etc.
Any orders made by the Panel will be monitored by the Council afterwards.