Longer in primary care: a mixed-methods study of the Welsh GP training model

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• General Practice Training
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Wales introduced a new 1+2 model for GP training: 1 year in hospital, 2 years in general practice.
• This contrasts with the previous model of 18 months in each setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and perceptions of the new 1+2 model of GP training in Wales.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal mixed-methods evaluation was conducted.
• Data were collected through repeated surveys and focus groups with GP trainers and trainees from June 2020 to December 2022.
• Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data were thematically analyzed.

Main Results:

• Increased time in general practice was highly valued for developing consultation skills and offering flexible learning.
• Initial concerns about reduced hospital specialty experience diminished as training progressed.
• Both trainees and trainers largely agreed the benefits of the 1+2 model surpassed its drawbacks.

Conclusions:

• The 1+2 model, with extended general practice placement, appears to enhance trainee readiness for practice.
• Future iterations should consider enhancing hospital experience without compromising the increased general practice time.