The Rotunda Hospital announced as first European centre to offer prestigious gynaecology training programme

The Rotunda Hospital, Ireland’s busiest maternity hospital, has become the first centre in Europe to receive accreditation by the American Association of Gynaecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) for a Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynaecologic Surgery (FMIGS) programme for gynaecology trainees.

This accreditation further enhances the Rotunda’s position as one of Ireland’s leaders in gynaecological services, innovation and training.

The addition of this internationally recognised programme will assist future gynaecologic surgeons in developing their skills and expertise.

The FMIGS programme will be led by Dr. Hassan Rajab, consultant gynaecologist, alongside Dr. Kushal Chummun and Dr. Conor Harrity, in collaboration with RCSI partners Beaumont Hospital and Connolly Hospital.

The new faculty across the three hospital sites will also include fertility specialists and urogynaecology, urology and colorectal surgeons.

The extensive application process for the programme included a detailed assessment of The Rotunda Hospital’s policies and protocols, its demonstration of a sufficient volume of surgical workload with appropriate complexity, an availability of didactic teaching and simulation training, as well as appropriate research opportunities.

The accreditation was completed with a recent visit to the hospital, where its facilities, programme directors, local faculty and allied surgical specialities were rigorously assessed.

This announcement follows the opening of its new state-of-the-art gynaecology unit in March 2021.

These developments are part of the Rotunda’s ongoing efforts to upscale, reduce patient waiting lists, alleviate pressure in theatre capacity and improve overall patient care.

Commenting on the recent accreditation, Professor Fergal Malone, Master of the Rotunda Hospital said:

“We are delighted to receive this accreditation and to be the first European centre to offer the AAGL accredited FMIGS programme to gynaecology trainees.

“This development highlights the existing expertise and dedication to high-quality gynaecology services and patient-centred care here at The Rotunda Hospital, and we are looking forward to being able to build upon this even further.

“We believe that well-trained and talented gynaecological surgeons are crucial to accommodating Ireland’s increasing need for top-class services in women’s health, and this traineeship is the perfect opportunity to ensure we can meet the growing demand for services in this area.”