Research Articles
The needs and preferences of general practitioners regarding their CPD learning: a Free State perspective
Submitted: 17 November 2022 | Published: 01 May 2016
About the author(s)
J. Botes, Department of Family Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South AfricaJ. Bezuidenhout, Division of Health Sciences Education, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
W. J. Steinberg, Department of Family Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
G. Joubert, Department of Biostatistics, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Background: The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) requires all registered Health Practitioners in South Africa to complete accredited learning opportunities, and provide proof thereof. CPD is the chosen model, which focuses on holistic development of the professional. The UFS Department of Family Medicine presents refresher courses for general practitioners, covering all relevant fields of interest.
Aim: The aim of this study was to find reasons and possible solutions for the perceived lack of interest in refresher courses by determining general practitioners’ needs and preferences for CPD training.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was chosen, whereby a systematic sample of 300 general practitioners registered with the HPCSA as doctors in the Free State were asked to complete a questionnaire. Needs and preferences regarding learning opportunities and factors influencing usage of these learning opportunities were assessed.
Results: The responses from 60 participants revealed that general practitioners still prefer the lecture form of presentations in large or small groups. Topics that ranked highly were Infective Diseases, Cardiology and Respiratory Diseases. Respondents indicated that general practitioners prefer not to leave their practices unattended for an extended period of time.
Conclusion: Free State general practitioners still prefer the traditional lecture-room style of learning. Their declared learning needs are in line with the regular ailments they encounter within their practices. Strategies to accommodate those who find it difficult to attend, due to time and distance concerns, should be considered.
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