Identifying competencies required for medication prescribing for general practice residents: a nominal group...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• General Practice
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Teaching medication prescribing presents a challenge in general practice curricula.
• This study aimed to identify and rank essential prescribing competencies for general practice residents in France.

Framework:

• A qualitative consensus study utilized the nominal group technique.
• Stakeholders in general practice curriculum and primary care medication use participated in meetings.
• The nominal group technique facilitated rapid consensus on required prescribing competencies.

Implementation:

• Thirty-one participants attended four meetings, developing a ranked list of 29 competencies.
• Competencies were categorized into four domains: pharmacology, regulatory standards, therapeutics, and communication.
• Top-ranked competencies included writing legible prescriptions, identifying specific populations, and appropriate dosing.

Implications:

• The study highlights the critical importance of communication skills in medication prescribing for general practice residents.
• Enhanced training in communication, particularly with patients and healthcare professionals, is recommended.
• Developing these skills can improve the quality and safety of medication prescribing in primary care.