Reflections about the third cycle of general practice in French medical universities

Since years following scientific advances and according to recommandations from (Brussels) European Community Commission, medical studies reform has c ontinuously progressed. These reforms have been applied as well to the thir d cycle. The National Evaluation Comity using comparative evaluation and no tation for each medical university has tried to acknowledge the quality of these reforms. One cannot ignore the efforts made by medical schools, altho ugh results obtained in theorical and practical learning for this third cyc le of general practice are not altogether satisfying. Several reflections c an be underlined : lack of definition of general practice is in part respon sible for its marginalization along medical studies course; an obvious disi nterest from university leaders in teaching medical practice, and an intern ship examination now essentially meant for specialization in is also to be blamed for social disqualification of general practice.