General practice in the curriculum in Slovenia

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Primary Care Development
• Family Medicine Training

Background:

• Vocational training for general practitioners began in Slovenia in 1966.
• General practice lacked academic recognition and was not an undergraduate subject.
• Medical education reform in Slovenia began in 1987.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the newly introduced family medicine program in Slovenia.
• To assess student and tutor perceptions of the practice-based teaching model.
• To identify challenges in the recognition of family medicine tutors.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of questionnaires.
• Evaluation involved students and general practitioner tutors.
• The study focused on the first program evaluation.

Main Results:

• The family medicine program was well-received by students.
• Students appreciated independent learning in a supportive environment.
• Tutors were perceived as facilitators rather than traditional teachers.

Conclusions:

• The program's practice-based approach is effective and well-accepted.
• Lack of recognition for tutors is a significant barrier.
• Formal recognition is needed to motivate tutors for future educational roles.