[Training of general surgeons as perceived from private practice].

A recent Swiss opinion poll has revealed that the medical profession is still enjoying a high prestige. The large majority of the surgeons in free practice has an optimistic view of the future of private medicine. Abdominal and peripheral vascular surgery as well as the surgery of the extremities belong also in smaller hospitals. About 75% of the surgeons feel that 10 years of postgraduate training is sufficient. A theoretical final examination is rejected. For further professional training, lectures, various courses and congresses are very popular. Compulsory examinations by the Swiss Medical Association (FMH) are undesirable.