Rudika Gmajnić

How to improve teaching in family medicine

The family physician has a specific task and responsibility as the first contact physician. Therefore his/her education needs to be highly specific, oriented towards independent work in real time and evidence-based medical principles. The most important role in educating a family physician belongs to physician practitioners, individuals who work in clinics and need (as much as possible) to transfer knowledge, skills and experiences from their own specific conditions and a wide variety of work methods. Therefore the experience and suggestions of teachers in practical training are considered to be the most significant contribution to improving the quality of teaching. The most important suggestions pertain to reducing the size of seminar groups, including family medicine courses in the fourth and fifth year of studies, and increasing the possibilities for students to do independent work, with supervision by their mentors. For good preparation of future physicians for independent work it is necessary for family medicine departments to be able to organize practical training and seminars in as many courses as possible, with as many classes as possible. A good professional basis in terms of selected teachers and practical training teachers is required to make this possible.