Version 7 – updated 02 July 2020
This update outlines the current approach within the BOA to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak relating to BOA activities and events. There is a separate BOA statement about impacts on clinical services, patients and training, available here.
We are monitoring the national and global situation and following guidance issued by Public Health England and in the Department of Health and Social Care’s corona virus action plan. We are also liaising with Royal Colleges and other Surgical Associations to keep abreast as the situation develops.
We are aware that this is a dynamic situation and we are committed to keeping our members and colleagues informed.
BOA virtual Congress 2020
We are pleased to announce that we will be running a virtual Congress during 15-25 September. This virtual event will consist of live and pre-recorded sessions throughout the week with an opportunity for Q&A, and access to industry. More information is available at our congress page here.
TOTS and TOES
The BOA has taken the decision to cancel the BOA-run TOTs and TOES face-to-face courses until further notice. The people booked onto the current courses are being contacted. We are also exploring options for alternative provision of courses e.g. via webinar or online learning.
In the event of a cancellation of a BOA event we will refund any delegate fees, or offer a transfer to an alternative date if appropriate. We will also refund fees for those who are unable to travel from areas affected by the coronavirus virus outbreak or if there are travel restrictions imposed by their governments and/or the UK government. Documentary evidence to support this may be required. The BOA is not responsible for any travel or other costs that may have been incurred. Regular updates for travellers to the UK from countries and regions affected can be found on the gov.uk website.
V-TOTS
With the suspension of face-to-face programmes, the BOA have decided to run Virtual TOTs (V-TOTs) courses facilitated by Lisa Hadfield-Law. This V-TOTs course is designed primarily for those who are concerned about CCT requirements, but once those needs are met, anyone is welcome to join. Those wishing to register their interest in V-TOTs should email [email protected] to be added to a waiting list. More information is available here.
2020 FORTE Summer School
The Federation of Orthopaedic and Trauma Trainees in Europe (FORTE) has announced that the 2020 FORTE Summer School, scheduled for August 24-28 in Athens, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are plans to reschedule the summer school for 2021 in Athens, Greece. More information will be available soon.
Application dates/processes for 2020 schemes are as follows:
- The 2020 Travelling Fellowship applications will open in September 2020, with further information regarding applications available soon.
- The 2020 Future Leaders Programme (FLP) start date is expected to be in January 2021. Application dates for the FLP are now open and further information can be found here.
As more information emerges, recommendations may change and we will update our website accordingly.