Background
The third year of emergency medicine specialty training in the United Kingdom poses multiple challenges including a step-up in clinical responsibility, a large curriculum to cover and exams that must be completed to progress to Year 4. This has contributed to high levels of dissatisfaction and burnout. The attrition from training at the end of this year is much higher than in other years or specialities.1

Balint groups have been used in mental health and general practice training aiming to develop reflective practice. Groups meet with a facilitator for 60–90 min every week or two and talk about difficult patient encounters.

Most research on Balint groups shows a positive learner experience and that the groups help develop reflective practice. A small number of studies suggest that Balint groups may also help reduce anxiety and provide relief from stress. Other studies show that they may help with burnout and improve work-related satisfaction.2

This study is the first to assess the impact of Balint groups on emergency medicine doctors. It aims to develop a holistic understanding of the impact of the groups, including any impact on resilience, retention and experience of work.

Methods
Semi-structured interviews with Balint group participants, other Year 3 emergency medicine trainees and those involved in delivering the programme. Autoethnography from one Balint group participant.

Results
The study is ongoing and the interim analysis will be previewed at the ASME ASM.