General Practice 'Out of Programme' Study Sessions

Dr Aurelia Butcher, Professor Johnny Lyon-Maris, Dr Jonathan Rial

Background
Failure to complete specialty training within the proscribed timeframe is a growing problem for those managing specialty training for general practice. Seven trainees from Wessex did not obtain their certificate of completion of training, and were placed out of programme for six months, as they could not be offered extensions. Once out of programme, it is difficult for such trainees to maintain continuity in their learning and assessment.

Summary of Work
A short-term programme of bi-weekly study sessions was set up and facilitated by recently qualified GPs with an interest in education (‘near peers’).  The programme included Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA) practice with feedback, as well as careers advice. Feedback data was gathered over the programme by the facilitators.

Findings
All trainees attended the full programme. Facilitators found that they improved their consultation skills and in particular gained insight into the purpose of the CSA assessment and their professional development as doctors.

Conclusions
The programme allowed trainees to keep in touch with general practice and provided a support network for trainees OOP.  For them the experience prompted insight and a reassessment of their learning.