[Expectations of continuing medical education at first level of attention in Chiapas]

To analyze the expectations of first level of attention physicians (FLAP) about continuing medical education.

An exploratory qualitative study was made from the cognitive view of motivation, in order to know the expectations of the FP at the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) in Chiapas.

The FLAP show little interest in continuing medical education staff, because they find traditional professors and training courses off their work schedule, becoming difficult for them to attend. However, FLAP consider the library facilities and research activities as strategies to keep themselves updated, but they lack the required time to do so.

The FLAP have low expectations caused by direct and indirect negative experiences at the work place as a result of ineffective communication among them and with the respective authorities of each unit. The FLAP show personal characteristics which limit their participation in the programs made by the continuing medical education staff, as well as their professional development.