The current status of Balint groups in US family practice residencies: A 10-year follow-up study, 1990-2000

Background and Object : In 1990, the first and, to date, only objective stu dy of Balint groups in US family practice residencies was conducted to meas ure their prevalence, composition, leadership, and function. The study repo rted here collected similar information about Balint groups. Methods: Surve ys were sent to all 464 US family practice residency program directors, wit h a 1-month follow-up to nonrespondents. The survey included questions abou t the existence, leadership, meeting frequency, and objectives of Balint tr aining. Results: A total of 298 (64%) residencies responded. Almost half (4 8%) of US responding residences reported conducting Balint groups, and 40% of those residencies have more than one group. The frequency of Balint grou p meetings has shifted in the past 10 years. In 1990, 55% of groups met wee kly; in 2000, only 15% of groups met weekly. Sixty-five percent of residenc ies require Balint participation. One third of Balint groups are conducted without a coleader, and the number of physicians leading groups is 22%, a d ecrease of 10% from 10 years ago. Forty-four percent of groups are led by p sychologists, an increase of 19% from 10 years ago. Respondents indicated u ncertainly about whether their groups were true Balint groups or simply res ident support groups. Conclusions: About half of US family practice residen cies operate groups described as Balint groups. They meet less frequently t hen 10 years ago and are less likely to have a physician involved in group leadership. Some of the groups may, actually be support groups rather than Balint groups.