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. 2007 Sep;53(9):1477-85.

Translating learning into practice: lessons from the practice-based small group learning program

Heather Armson  1 , Sarah Kinzie, Dawnelle Hawes, Stefanie Roder, Jacqueline Wakefield, Tom Elmslie
Affiliations

Translating learning into practice: lessons from the practice-based small group learning program

Heather Armson et al. Can Fam Physician. 2007 Sep.

Abstract
in English, French

PROBLEM ADDRESSED The need for effective and accessible educational approaches by which family physicians can maintain practice competence in the face of an overwhelming amount of medical information.

Objective of program: The practice-based small group (PBSG) learning program encourages practice changes through a process of small-group peer discussion-identifying practice gaps and reviewing clinical approaches in light of evidence.

Program description: The PBSG uses an interactive educational approach to continuing professional development. In small, self-formed groups within their local communities, family physicians discuss clinical topics using prepared modules that provide sample patient cases and accompanying information that distils the best evidence. Participants are guided by peer facilitators to reflect on the discussion and commit to appropriate practice changes.

Conclusion: The PBSG has evolved over the past 15 years in response to feedback from members and reflections of the developers. The success of the program is evidenced in effect on clinical practice, a large and increasing number of members, and the growth of interest internationally.

PROBLÈME À L’ÉTUDE: La nécessité de disposer de méthodes de formation accessibles et efficaces permettant au médecin de famille de demeurer compétent dans sa pratique face à la somme énorme d’information médicale.

OBJECTIF DU PROGRAMME: Le programme d’apprentissage en petit groupe en milieu de pratique (PGMP) facilite les changements de pratique par un processus de discussion en petits groupes de pairs, lequel permet d’identifier les façons d’agir déficientes et de revoir les méthodes cliniques à la lumière de données probantes.

DESCRIPTION DU PROGRAMME: Le programme PGMP a recours à une approche pédagogique interactive pour assurer le développement professionnel continu. Les médecins forment des petits groupes dans leur communauté locale où ils discutent de sujets cliniques à l’aide de modules tout faits qui fournissent des exemples de cas accompagnés d’information basée sur les meilleures données probantes. Des pairs aident les participants à réfléchir aux sujets discutés et à s’engager à apporter les changements appropriés à leur pratique.

CONCLUSION: Le programme PGMP s’est transformé au cours des dernières années en réponse à la rétroaction des participants et aux réflexions des responsables de son élaboration. Les changements des modes de pratique, le nombre de plus en plus grand de membres et l’intérêt croissant manifesté internationalement démontrent bien le succès du programme.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Practice-based learning circle
Figure 2
Figure 2
Commitment-to-change section of group log sheet
Figure 3
Figure 3
Practice-based small group membership across Canada compared with CFPC total membership: PBSG membership across Canada given as a percent of total CFPC membership. Dashed line indicates national average of PBSG to CFPC membership in percent.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Sex of practice-based small group members of the Foundation for Medical Practice in comparison with the National Physician Survey: Data shown are current as of 2004.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Year of medical school graduation for practice-based small group members of the FMPE in comparison with the NPS: Data shown are current as of 2004.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Population served by physician’s practice for practice-based small group members of the FMPE in comparison with the NPS: Data shown are current as of 2004.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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