New model for GP training proposed

A discussion paper has been circulated on a new model of training that aims to encourage more doctors to choose a general practice career, as well as supporting GPs to work within a changing health sector.

The proposals include introducing options for existing GPs and those in training to acquire advanced competencies, requiring some hospital-based practice during GP training and moving towards greater equity between GP registrars and DHB-employed registrar terms and conditions.

Extensive discussions with the medical profession, DHBs, education providers and other key stakeholders will take place over the next two months before a final plan is agreed for development and implementation from 2012 onwards.

The key proposals outlined in the discussion paper include:

• providing an enhanced bursary to first year GP registrars that ensures their remuneration is more closely aligned to that of hospital-based first year registrars
• introducing optional enhanced competency modules in areas of practice such as elderly care and mental health care
• changing the nature of assessments to incorporate a more modular approach
• preserving the three year period of training and immersion in general practice in the first year, but with increased time for hospital-based placements.

RNZCGP President Dr Harry Pert said the College believed the proposals would build on the strengths of the existing GP education programme, while introducing new opportunities and support to benefit both current and future GPs and GP registrars.

‘We need to ensure that the education GPs receive offers the right mix of flexibility, skills training and opportunities for personal development.’

Professor Des Gorman, Executive Chair of HWNZ said: ‘We need to ensure GPs are equipped to deal with the challenges of the role and to work in partnership with colleagues in the hospital sector to maintain continuity of care. These proposals will enable GPs to work in a wider range of settings and will create a platform for greater integration between hospital and community services.’

Dr John Adams, Chair of the MCNZ said:  ‘The proposals have been developed in response to the increasingly diverse and demanding challenges of general practice, with more services and more complex care provided in the community. We need to continue to modernise our medical education provision to ensure it meets the needs of the profession, patients and the public.’

The full discussion document Workforce Requirements for New Models of Service Delivery: Proposed Changes to the General Practice Education Programme can be viewed at http://gpepproposals.hiirc.org.nz