Student supervision by trainee doctors in GP teaching practices: Win-win situation or additional burden? An interview study on current practices and acceptance

Abstract

Objective: Teaching by trainee doctors is also established practice in general practice in English-speaking countries. This study examines the involvement of trainee doctors in the supervision of students in German general practices and the acceptance of trainee doctors as teachers from the perspective of physicians with a license for post-graduate training (PLT) and the trainee doctors themselves.Methodology: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 9 PLTs and 9 trainees. The interview guide was developed based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptance. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and evaluated using Kuckartz’s qualitative analysis.Results: Trainee doctors are involved in student supervision in GP teaching practices to varying degrees and often in unstructured ways. Supervision by trainees is considered advantageous as they are closer in terms of hierarchy, possess more up-to-date knowledge and are less far ahead in terms of knowledge and function as role models. However, professional uncertainty or revealing knowledge gaps to patients and students is experienced as difficult by some trainees. Competing for time with patient care is seen as a challenge. Better time planning and didactic preparation could avoid pressure in this area. Teaching is seen as part of the GP profession, especially by trainee doctors. However, a potential obligation to teach is seen as more of a hindrance to encouraging the next generation of doctors by both trainee doctors and PLTs. Conclusion: The inclusion of trainee doctors in student teaching is frequently practiced by those surveyed, which suggests a high level of acceptance but is not consistently implemented. Structured organization of teaching in real life, didactic qualifications and offering credits for teaching activities might further improve inclusion and acceptance.

Keywords

• general practice
• junior physicians
• undergraduate medical education
• vocational training
• teaching methods