Webinar: High performance, high stakes: Lessons in human factors from surgery and aviation

Why do highly skilled surgical teams still make mistakes, and what can surgery learn from aviation about improving safety, communication and performance?

Join us at 6pm on 10 November 2026 for a discussion on the role of human factors in surgical practice, Chaired by Professor Peter Brennan OBE, RCS England Council Member, a consultant surgeon and Honorary Professor of Surgery, joined by panellists Mike Sutton OBE, Director of Flight Operations and Tista Chakravarty-Gannon, Head of Outreach Strategic Delivery and National Engagement. This webinar is designed for medical students, foundation doctors, surgical trainees, SAS doctors, consultants and the wider multidisciplinary surgical team. Together, we'll explore the impact of behaviours and culture on patient safety, the importance of effective communication and teamwork in the operating theatre, and how individuals can help foster an inclusive and just culture that supports both patient outcomes and staff wellbeing.

You'll hear from expert faculty with experience in surgery and human factors, who will share lessons from both healthcare and high-performance environments such as aviation. Learn from their experience, gain insight into the consequences of poor behaviours and the expectations of the General Medical Council (GMC), and have the opportunity to ask questions during the live discussion.

By the end of the session, you'll be able to:

• Recognise how behaviours, culture and teamwork influence patient safety and team performance.
• Identify effective and ineffective communication and behaviours within the operating theatre.
• Apply principles of inclusive leadership to help create and sustain a just and supportive workplace culture.
  
  

RCS England membership supports you throughout your training, offering access to exclusive resources, discounts and opportunities to help you progress in your career. Affiliate membership is available for just £15 per year.

Join as an affiliate member prior to sitting your MRCS exams with us and receive access to our First 4 membership package. You'll save £512 over the first four years of post-MRCS membership.

This webinar is free for members and accredited for up to one CPD point. Unable to attend the session live? Register for the webinar to access the recording anytime.

View our other upcoming events and webinars.