[Perspectives on inspector visits in general practice].

INTRODUCTION

General practice has always provided teaching and training in some form or another, and recent years have seen a discussion on an appraisal system based on visits to practices. The educational dimension of general practice has been described in several publications. Training in general practice is highly esteemed. Even so, extant literature pinpoints educational elements that may be improved, especially in the areas of pedagogic competence, organisation and physical environment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Interviews with trainees, trainers, tutors and members of the board of the Danish Association for Family Medicine.

RESULTS

Educational appraisal in Danish teaching practices is assumed to have a positive impact on training. One 3-hours visit very 4th year is suggested, with the possibility for early revisits as needed. Two inspectors per visit and a primary focus on pedagogic competence are recommended.

CONCLUSION

Despite good evaluations there is room for improvement of general practice training. Educational appraisal may provide a method for this. It is assumed that appraisal in conjunction with the currently existing activities would strengthen the training in general practice. The format should be practicable and acceptable.