Mapping scholarly continuing professional development publications in the South African Family Practice journal (2020–2025): Trends, gaps, and a call for contributions

Abstract

Continuing professional development (CPD) comprises self-directed educational activities that are vital to the lifelong learning of healthcare professionals. It maintains competence, adapts to new guidelines, and supports evidence-based practice. In South Africa, professional boards mandate CPD, which is offered via journals, webinars, courses, conferences, and digital platforms. We evaluated CPD articles in the South African Family Practice (SAFP) journal from 2020 to 2025. Clinical content dominated, with guidance on infectious and chronic diseases. However, online engagement was limited. This 6-year snapshot, part of the journal’s 45-year celebration, emphasises SAFP’s role in advancing primary care education. It also highlights opportunities for greater inclusivity and accessibility, for innovation in CPD publishing, and the need for future evaluations of readership patterns and practitioners’ needs.
Contribution: This article reviews CPD publishing in SAFP over 6 years, focusing on themes, authorship, and engagement challenges within its 45-year legacy of promoting lifelong learning in primary care.