Musgrove Park Hospital’s acute medicine department has been named the top training site in the country, after the 2026 General Medical Council National Training Survey placed its Acute Medical Unit at the summit of doctor‑training satisfaction.
Survey puts Somerset unit ahead of 188 peers
The survey measured resident doctors’ views on supervision, teaching, clinical support and workplace culture across 189 acute medicine units nationwide. Musgrove’s scores topped the list, edging out the nearest competitor by a narrow margin.
Dr Tom Payne said the result reflects a learning environment that consistently earns high marks, not a one‑off spike. The department has appeared in the national top five for several years, suggesting a durable pattern rather than a flash in the pan.
Teamwork and shared learning cited as strengths
Acute Medicine Consultant Dr Tom Payne said the achievement mirrors a culture of continuous learning and collaboration that has become routine on the floor. “We’re really proud of the result,” he told staff, noting that the high scores have been steady.
He added that its “big team effort” means senior consultants and junior doctors learn from each other. “If there’s something we’re not sure about, we’ll look it up together and talk it through as a group,” he explained.
The service treats patients with a wide range of urgent and complex conditions, creating a fast‑paced setting where learning opportunities abound.
That intensity, according to staff, helps trainees build confidence while still having expert oversight.
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Balancing independence with supervision is a core focus.
Trainees report feeling empowered to make decisions, yet know senior doctors are just a call away if needed.
Beyond doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists all contribute to the supportive atmosphere. Their combined effort is credited with the consistently high feedback from residents.
The unit has consistently ranked among the top performers in the survey over multiple years, highlighting its sustained excellence.
The team hopes the national accolade will aid recruitment and retention of future consultants, encouraging them to return to Somerset after completing specialist training.
Meanwhile, neighboring Yeovil Hospital has reported rising scores in the same survey, hinting at broader progress within acute medicine training across the region.
