Critical thinking within the RACGP Training Program and the college examination

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• General Practice
• Healthcare Accountability

Background:

• Formalization of the Program's curriculum presents an opportunity for the College to define its stance on key educational matters.
• Increasing demands for accountability in healthcare spending are anticipated, necessitating new skills for General Practitioners (GPs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the need for GPs to develop audit skills for accountability.
• To consider the integration of an audit project into the College examination.
• To research the effectiveness of the Training Program in fostering self-assessment skills.

Main Methods:

• The study proposes considering the development of an audit project segment for the College examination.
• Critical appraisal skills could be assessed through the development of audit standards.
• Research into the efficacy of the Training Program's self-assessment skill development is recommended.

Main Results:

• The abstract does not contain specific results but outlines recommendations for future action.
• It highlights the likely future requirement for GPs to possess audit skills.
• The need for effective self-assessment skills in trainees is emphasized.

Conclusions:

• The College should consider incorporating an audit project into its examination to prepare GPs for future accountability demands.
• Further research is needed to ensure the effectiveness of the training program in developing crucial self-assessment skills.
• Implementing these changes will enhance the educational processes for GPs.