Dyslexia in surgery

What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that affects around 10% of the population worldwide and primarily affects the ability to read, write and spell.^1,2

Dyslexia does not have an effect on a person’s intelligence.

Diagnosing dyslexia

If you suspect you may have dyslexia, a formal diagnosis will help to ensure you have access to the right support. The British Dyslexia Association has an ‘Adult Checklist’ that can help screen for dyslexia and each NHS England region has a Professional Support Unit (PSU) that is equipped to arrange a dyslexia assessment.

More information on dyslexia is available on the NHS website.

Pursuing a surgical career with dyslexia

In March 2020, the Bulletin published ‘The dyslexic surgeon’, which explores the experiences of people with dyslexia across their surgical careers. It found that dyslexia presented additional challenges both in examinations and in the workplace and that there were instances of insufficient support and stigmatisation of dyslexia in the profession. At the same time, however, the research found dyslexia to be associated with several traits that could positively impact a surgical career, such as above-average physical coordination skills and lateral thinking.

Research in Frontiers in Psychology and Made by Dyslexia and EY has also found that individuals with dyslexia often develop compensatory strategies and strengths. Many of these offer advantages for a career in surgery.

• Problem-solving skills: dyslexia can foster strong problem-solving abilities as individuals learn to approach tasks in alternative ways. These skills can be particularly valuable in surgery, where quick decision-making and adaptability are essential.
• Spatial reasoning: many individuals with dyslexia have well-developed spatial reasoning skills. This ability to visualise objects and understand spatial relationships can be advantageous in surgical procedures that require precise manipulation and spatial awareness.
• Creativity and innovation: dyslexia is often associated with creativity and thinking outside the box, traits that help surgeons bring innovative approaches to surgical techniques and procedures.
• Resilience and determination: overcoming the challenges associated with dyslexia requires resilience and determination. These qualities are also crucial for surgeons, who are often required to perform under high-pressure situations.
• Empathy and communication: many individuals with dyslexia develop strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and effective communication. These skills can enhance patient-doctor relationships and contribute to better patient outcomes.
• Attention to detail: while dyslexia is often associated with difficulties in processing written information, individuals with dyslexia may develop heightened attention to detail in other areas. In surgery, meticulous attention to detail is essential for ensuring accuracy and safety during procedures.
• Adaptability: dyslexia can foster adaptability and flexibility in response to changing circumstances. Surgeons with dyslexia may be adept at adjusting their approach based on patient needs or unexpected developments during surgery.^3,4

While dyslexia may present challenges, it does not rule out success in surgery or any other profession. With appropriate support, accommodations, and recognition of their strengths, individuals with dyslexia can excel in surgery and make valuable contributions to the medical field.

Dyslexia support for surgeons and trainees

Accessing the right support is key to a successful surgical career with dyslexia.

Medical school

Universities have established pathways for supporting students with dyslexia. This includes Student Disability Advisors, whose primary role is to ensure students have equal access to education and are provided with the necessary accommodations and support to succeed academically. Most students with dyslexia will qualify for reasonable adjustments, including extra time, to complete examinations and timed assessments. These reasonable adjustments are designed to prevent a student from being disadvantaged by their dyslexia while upholding the competency standards that are required for all.

In addition, students can apply for a Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) to help cover the costs of:

• specialist equipment such as a computer or a digital recorder
• non-medical helpers, such as note-takers and readers
• other study support such as extra books, printing and photocopying
  
   

The NHS workplace

The NHS offers various forms of support to help staff manage challenges posed by dyslexia and perform effectively in their roles. Under the Equality Act 2010, employers are required to make reasonable adjustments to support employees with disabilities, including dyslexia. Adjustments can include:

• extra time for reading and writing tasks
• use of assistive technology (e.g. text-to-speech software; voice recognition software)
• adjustments to the work environment (e.g. quiet spaces to reduce distractions)

NHS occupational health services can assess individual needs and recommend appropriate adjustments and support strategies. They can provide tailored advice on managing dyslexia in the workplace. Some NHS trusts offer mentoring schemes and staff networks where doctors can receive guidance, support and advocacy from colleagues who understand their challenges.

Doctors in training can also work with their educational supervisor to develop a personalised learning support plan that outlines specific support needs and strategies to successfully complete training programmes. Doctors with dyslexia are encouraged to speak with their line manager, occupational health department or human resources team to discuss their specific needs and access the support available to them.

Post-graduate examinations

As with university examinations, candidates with dyslexia are entitled to reasonable adjustments for postgraduate examinations such as the MRCS and the FRCS. 

• MRCS examination information via the Intercollegiate Committee for Basic Surgical Examination (ICBSE)
• FRCS examination information via the Joint Committee on Intercollegiate Examinations (JCIE)

Other resources

• Members of RCS England can access the Confidential Support and Advice Service (CSAS), which provides access to confidential support and advice from a trained counsellor via the helpline. This service also includes access to the Wisdom app by Health Assured.
• British Dyslexia Association
• GMC Supporting disabled learners in medical education and training
• BMA Making reasonable adjustments
• BMA Reasonable adjustments through the stages of medical education and training
• NHS Employers Neurodivergent Colleagues
  
   

This article was written in collaboration with Adam Holden BSc(Hons) MBBS BDS PgCert FRCS(OMFS).