An evaluation of an educational group for general practitioner continuing education and development

Educational groups are not often used for continuing professional developme nt by general practitioners (GPs). The setting up and evaluation of a weekl y educational group for mid-career GPs in South London are described. A fea ture was a regular 90-minute session facilitated by a group analyst, utiliz ing a combination of psychodynamic interpretation and practical problem sol ving by group members. The remainder of the time was spent on audit based e ducation. Evaluation Methods used at the beginning and end of the group wer e individual interviews with group members, together with job satisfaction and stress questionnaires, and data on practice services and health promoti on activities. The results showed changes in practice activity and health c ave delivery with new and improved services. Perceived job sasses reduced f or the majority of members and satisfaction increased Facilitated education al groups where time is divided between task and support should be further evaluated as a model for GP continuing professional development.