Factors Associated with Perceived Continuing Medical Education Necessity Among General Practitioners in Southeast...

Continuing medical education (CME) is crucial for maintaining the competency of general practitioners (GPs). Understanding factors associated with GPs' perceived necessity of CME is essential for optimizing training programs, especially in resource-constrained regions. This study aimed to identify factors associated with GPs' perceived necessity of CME in Southeast Henan, China.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among GPs in Zhoukou City, Southeast Henan, from August to September 2024. Data were collected via an online questionnaire. The primary outcome was the perceived necessity of CME (binary: yes/no). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with this outcome. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore pathways linking CME policy cognition, self-efficacy, attitude towards CME, and perceived necessity.

Among 5537 eligible registered GPs, 2,480 valid responses were obtained (response rate, 44.8%). Overall, 35.6% perceived CME as necessary, whereas 89.6% had participated in CME during the previous three years. In the multivariable model, understanding the linkage between CME credits and career advancement showed the strongest positive association with perceived CME necessity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=3.74, 95% CI: 2.97-4.72). Organizational support (aOR=1.76), high self-directed learning ability (aOR=1.60), absence of anxiety (aOR=1.37), and more than 30 years of practice experience (aOR=1.58) were also positively associated with perceived CME necessity.

The perceived necessity of CME among GPs was associated with policy awareness, organizational support, psychological factors, and professional experience. These findings may inform policy transparency, organizational support, and tiered CME curricula that address the needs of GPs with different competency levels.