Is small-group education the key to retention of sessional GPs?

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN IN THIS AREA • Recruitment and retention et general practitioners (GPs) are topical issues in the modern NHS. • There is/a link between reduced stress/burnout in GPs and continuing medical education. • Sessional GPs are known to suffer from isolation and difficulty accessing educational support. • One previous study of retention of sessional GPs cites three key factors: a secure contract, mentoring support and a stimulating work environment with a culture of personal and professional development. WHAT THIS WORK ADDS • A primary care trust (PCT)-funded, peer-facilitated educational support group can be a key instrument in the recruitment and retention of sessional GPs, in particular by providing a network of supportive colleagues and help keeping up to date. • This is the first study examining this factor in the retention of sessional GPs. • Other modifiable factors influencing recruitment include type of post and contract. • Other modifiable factor influencing retention include financial factors. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH • Calculation of retention rates of sessional GPs in PCTs (work in progress) will allow further studies assessing the-impact, including cost-benefit ratio, of interventions relating to specific factors influencing retention. • The association between educational support and retention should be studied for: other members of the primary care team, health professionals outside general practice and healthcare systems outside the NHS and the UK.