Training for general practice: How Australia's programs compare to other countries

Abstract

Background: General practice in Australia and internationally has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past half century in terms of recognition, academic status, organisation and funding. Training pathways have also evolved in response to this changing environment.

Objectives: This paper compares some of the features of Australian and international general practice training using the educational standards developed by the World Organization of Family Doctors' (WONCA) Working Party on Education as a framework.

Discussion: General practice training in Australia, particularly rural training, is strong by international standards, but more lessons can still be learnt from other settings. Local contextual factors mean there are substantial differences in training across jurisdictions, but there are a number of similarities. There is increasing attention being paid to the many roles of a general practitioner, and the importance of a formalised, structured and well-resourced training program. More needs to be done internationally to ensure high-level primary care is available to all people, particularly the underserved.