6 May 2025
Trainetics' director Ian Bishop discusses a partnership with Fitzpatrick Referrals
Vet Times
Job Title
Trainetics, a leading human factors consultancy and training provider, was selected by Fitzpatrick Referrals to design and deliver a bespoke human factors training programme for staff at its state-of-the-art veterinary practice in Godalming, Surrey, writes Trainetics’ director Ian Bishop.
The collaboration marks a significant step in integrating human factors principles into the veterinary profession and reinforces Fitzpatrick Referrals’ commitment to excellence in patient care and team performance.
Human factors is the multidisciplinary science that studies interactions between humans and other elements of a system in order to optimise human well-being and overall system performance.
In practical terms, human factors draws from fields such as anatomy, physiology, physics and biomechanics, and examines aspects such as, cognitive performance (for example, decision making, situational awareness or workload management). It covers physical interactions (such as, ergonomics or biometrics), team dynamics (for example, communication, leadership or teamwork) and systems thinking (for instance, how processes, technology and work environments influence behaviour and performance).
By implementing human factors principles, veterinary professionals can reduce preventable errors, enhance patient outcomes, and create a safer, more effective working environment.
The bespoke training sessions designed for Fitzpatrick Referrals focused on practical applications of human factors, including situational awareness, decision-making, workload management and team resource management. Sessions provided staff with tools and strategies to enhance team performance and improve patient outcomes.
The training incorporated real-world case studies and scenario-based learning, ensuring that participants could immediately apply their knowledge to daily clinical practice.
Discussions explored how cognitive biases can impact decision making, how communication strategies can prevent misunderstandings and how effective workload management strategies can enhance both efficiency and safety.
Understanding human factors is essential for optimising team performance and reducing risk in high-pressure environments.
By working directly with Fitzpatrick Referrals, we were able to tailor our training to the specific challenges faced by their veterinary teams, ensuring practical application and real-world impact.”
Fitzpatrick Referrals, already renowned for its innovative approach to veterinary care, recognises the importance of integrating human factors into its operations. This initiative aligns with the practice’s ongoing commitment to professional development and patient safety.
Nicola Bromley, hospital director at Fitzpatrick Referrals, said: “The course has definitely had a positive impact, and we have enhanced our systems and working practices for patient safety and team well-being.”
As awareness of human factors grows within the veterinary profession, Trainetics is at the forefront of providing tailored training that bridges best practices from aviation, health care, and other high-reliability industries. The challenges faced in a veterinary setting demand a structured approach to human performance and safety.
By fostering a deeper understanding of how human behaviour impacts veterinary practice, the effective application of human factors will help to shape a safer and more efficient veterinary workforce. Through continued collaboration with leading veterinary institutions, Trainetics is committed to advancing patient care and enhancing the well-being of veterinary professionals.
