Vocational training in Family Medicine: the trainers' perspectives

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate how trainers perceived the vocational training programme in family medicine in Hong Kong. METHOD: Structured discussion was held with trainers training trainees in the community based segment of the vocational training pro gramme of the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians. Forty seven trainers were identified and invited to attend the discussion. Thirteen trainers participated in two structured discussions. RESULTS: The response rate was 27,7%. The trainers were clear about their roles but saw an overlap between their functions and those of trainee supervisors. They were unsure on what to teach and how to teach, looking for guidance from the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians. They felt that there should be more varied training methods, more resources at training centres, better training arrangements and more co-ordination among training stakeholders. Some trainers experienced difficulties with their trainees. All trainers saw the benefit of an annual trainers workshop. CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that the College provides better organisation for and training of trainers. A trainers co-ordinator, a trainers hand book and an annual trainers workshop are some suggestions.