The Virginia generalist initiative: lessons learned in a statewide consortium

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health Policy
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Virginia faced a shortage of generalist physicians.
• Three state medical schools historically operated independently.
• The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded the Generalist Physician Initiative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Virginia Generalist Initiative consortium.
• To outline its activities, successes, and challenges.
• To share lessons learned from inter-institutional collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Formation of a consortium between three medical schools and governmental stakeholders.
• Description of consortium activities and outcomes.
• Case studies to illustrate lessons learned.

Main Results:

• The initiative significantly altered the goals, objectives, and programs of the participating medical schools.
• Strategic objectives of the schools were aligned with state health priorities.
• Successes included enhanced collaboration and a greater focus on generalist physician training.

Conclusions:

• Stakeholder involvement from inception is crucial for identifying mutual goals and establishing protocols.
• A shared philosophical commitment, resources, and an environment for risk-taking and change are essential for consortium success.
• Building and maintaining trust among partners is vital for sustained collaboration and achieving public health objectives.