Learning needs re quality prescribing for GPs in training

January 01, 0001

Learning needs re quality prescribing for GPs in training

Little is known about the perceived learning needs of Australian general practice (GP) registrars in relation to the quality use of medicines (QUM) or the difficulties experienced when learning to prescribe. This study by researchers from Australia aimed to address this gap. GP registrars' perceived learning needs were investigated through an online national survey, interviews and focus groups. Medical educators' perceptions were canvassed in semi- structured interviews in order to gain a broader perspective of the registrars' needs.

The two most commonly attended QUM educational activities took place in the workplace and through regional training providers. Outside of these structured educational activities, registrars learned to prescribe mainly through social and situated means. Difficulties encountered by GP registrars included the transition from hospital prescribing to prescribing in the GP context, judging how well they were prescribing and identifying appropriate and efficient sources of information at the point of care.

The researchers concluded: "GP registrars learn to prescribe primarily and opportunistically in the workplace. Despite many resources being expended on the provision of guidelines, decision-support systems and training, GP registrars expressed difficulties related to QUM. Ways of easing the transition into GP and of managing the information 'overload' related to medicines (and prescribing) in an evidence-guided, efficient and timely manner are needed. GP registrars should be provided with explicit feedback about the process and outcomes of prescribing decisions, including the use of audits, in order to improve their ability to judge their own prescribing."

Such an important area of medicine that is well worth improving.


For the full abstract, click here.

BMC Medical Education 9 December 2010 © 1999-2010 BioMed Central Ltd
What are the perceived learning needs of Australian general practice registrars for quality prescribing?. Rola Ajjawi , Jill E Thistlethwaite , Parisa Aslani and Nick B Cooling. Correspondence to Rola Ajjawi: [email protected]

Category: PT. Professional Training. Keywords: learning needs, prescribing, focus groups, interviews, on- line survey, journal watch.
Synopsis edited by Dr Stephen Wilkinson, Melbourne, Australia. Posted on Global Family Doctor 14 January 2011

Pearls are an independent product of the Cochrane primary care group and are meant for educational use and not to guide clinical care.

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