Changes to Tracheostomy-Related WCAs
The CICM Board has approved a set of adjustments to the current ‘Tracheostomy Insertion and Management’ and ‘Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy’ Workplace Competency Assessments (WCAs). These changes recognise the reduction in procedural opportunities across many ICUs, while supporting Trainees continue to engage in valuable learning opportunities.
These changes have come into effect as of 24 November 2025, and all related documentation will be updated accordingly.
Key Points:
Requirement for Oversight/Independent rating removed
The requirement for Trainees to achieve an oversight or independent rating on both the Tracheostomy Insertion and Management’ and ‘Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy’ WCA from has been removed. While Trainees are still encouraged to work toward an oversight or independent rating where possible, WCAs completed at any rating level (including direct supervision, proactive supervision, responsive supervision) will now be accepted to meet the requirement.
Trainees may now complete both the Tracheostomy Insertion and Management’ and ‘Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy’ WCA in a simulation environment or during real patient care and have the WCAs meet CICM requirements. This allows Trainees to learn and practice skills, decision-making, and enhance understanding of safe tracheostomy practice regardless of local case volume.
The existing WCA forms for Tracheostomy Insertion and Management’ and ‘Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy’ will still be required to be submitted to the college prior to the end of training. However, these changes should make it more achievable for Trainees to meet the assessment requirements while maintaining educational integrity.
Please note that the above updates are limited to the Tracheostomy Insertion and Management and Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy WCAs. There are no changes to any other WCAs. Trainees undertaking the Paediatric Training Pathway are not required to complete the Tracheostomy Insertion and Management’ and ‘Providing Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Tracheostomy’ WCAs.
Looking Ahead: A Shift in Focus
Work is currently underway to improve how Tracheostomy-related knowledge, skills and capabilities are assessed, with greater emphasis on the management of patients with tracheostomies in the ICU, rather than on procedural insertion alone. This reflects modern clinical practice and the skills all intensivists need.
As this development process will take several months, including consultation, drafting, and Board review, the changes will remain in effect until the new assessment is finalised.
If you have questions about how these changes apply to your training or supervision, please contact the Training Department at [email protected],au.