Training of Assistant Forensic Medical Examiners in London, UK

Abstract 

The overall aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the quality of current practical training in London with a view to improving future training as part of faculty development.

New trainees in clinical forensic medicine (CFM), Assistant Forensic Medical Examiners (AFMEs), were interviewed to gather their views of their recent training experience and to attempt to identify problems with implementing the training as it stands.

An overwhelming theme emerged that there should be a more formal structure to the training of newly appointed FMEs. Each trainee should have a named clinical and educational supervisor during the training period. Furthermore it should be mandatory for educational supervisors to undergo training and review of performance.

Keywords: Forensic physician, Forensic medical examiner, Clinical forensic medicine, Clinical supervisor, Educational supervisor