A national Delphi study: experiences of general practitioner (GP) trainees in the Republic of Ireland undertaking online small group learning as part of the GP Training Programme during COVID-19.

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, GP training day release was redirected from face-to-face to an online setting. With this study, our aim was to assess trainee experiences of online small group learning and to make recommendations with regards to future GP training. METHODS: A qualitative study using the Delphi survey technique, approved by the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) Ethics Committee. A series of three sequential online questionnaires were sent to our trainee cohort in all 14 training schemes in Ireland. The first questionnaire explored GP trainee experiences and key themes were generated. Subsequent questionnaires were developed using these themes, with second and third round questionnaires establishing consensus on these experiences. RESULTS: In total, 64 GP trainees responded. Each training scheme was represented. Response rates for round 1 and 2 were 76% and 56% respectively, with round 3 currently underway. Trainees felt that online teaching was convenient, reduced commuting costs, and provided peer support. They also reported loss in unstructured discussion, practical teaching sessions and relationship building. Seven key themes were generated: future format of GP training; accessibility and flexibility; teaching experience; provision of GP training; support and collegiality; educational experience; and technical problems. There is a consensus that some online teaching should be retained for the future. DISCUSSION: Online teaching provided a continuation in training that was more convenient and accessible but affected social interactions and relationship building amongst trainees. Future online sessions could be utilised in a hybrid model of teaching going forward.

Experiences of Irish general practice trainees who participate in 4-month rotations in Malawi and Australia.

BACKGROUND: International health electives provide doctors and medical students with unique educational experiences. The HSE South East GP training programme in Waterford, Ireland has run a four-month elective to Malawi since 2006, and also ran a four-month placement in Australia between 2004 and 2011. AIM: The aim of this study was to see whether these overseas electives provide Irish GP trainees with any positive or negative experiences, and to make recommendations regarding future similar rotations abroad. METHOD: This study used the Delphi survey technique, a qualitative research method. The first round questionnaire asked about challenges faced while overseas, what the trainees learned, and how the placement influenced their clinical practice on their return to Ireland. Doctors were also asked about the benefits and/or limitations of an overseas placement during GP training. RESULTS: These Irish GP trainees reported very positive outcomes from time spent in Malawi and Australia. They reported improved knowledge and skills, and increased awareness of health issues and cultural differences in another country. Moreover, they had an opportunity to reflect and grow personally as doctors. CONCLUSION: This is the first study looking at an international health elective as part of a vocational training programme in Ireland.