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Possible Changes to the GPEP Training Programme

The RNZCGP has been working with the Medical Council and Health Workforce New Zealand on possible changes to the general practice training programme.

They have been looking at how to build on the current positive aspects of GPEP, within the existing three-year duration, but with enhancements that will prepare people to deliver care in a health sector that is likely to undergo significant change in the years ahead.

Project Update March 2011

The objectives of the possible changes are to:

  • increase recruitment to vocational training in general practice and
  • to equip the future GP workforce to lead in new, emergent models of service delivery.

One area of work has been to review the remuneration of GPEP1 registrars. Our objective is that GPEP1 registrars should be supported to the same extent as registrars in other disciplines, with no financial disincentives for doctors to enter GP training. As a first step in moving towards this objective the intent is that the current bursary model will be retained for 2012 but that the bursary will be augmented.

The review also includes scoping the development of ‘advanced competency modules’. These will be optional and will provide registrars (and fellows) with the opportunity to develop advanced skills in areas of interest. The first modules for development are in mental health and addictions (in collaboration with the RANZCP) and care of the elderly (in collaboration with the RACP). A range of further modules will also be explored. 

We believe that providing GPs with these opportunities will add interest to their practice, help build a workforce to meet the needs of specific communities and open up new career opportunities, for which these doctors should be recognised. 

The overall structure of the general practice education programme is also being considered. A discussion paper is currently being drafted and we expect it to be released in May. It will look at how to build on the current positive aspects of GPEP, within the existing three-year duration, but with enhancements that will prepare people to deliver care in a health sector that is likely to undergo significant change in the years ahead.

Feedback will be gathered during May to July with decisions likely to be made in August and September. Detailed work on design and implementation will follow and continue into 2012. It is most likely that any changes will come on stream commencing 2013.

For detailed information about this project as well as a list of Frequently Asked Questions and the project timetable, please see Developments in General Practice Training.