Incorporating and evaluating an integrated gender-specific medicine curriculum: a survey study in Dutch GP training.
BACKGROUND
We recently set standards for gender-specific medicine training as an integrated part of the GP training curriculum. This paper describes the programme and evaluation of this training.


METHODS
The programme is designed for GP registrars throughout the 3-year GP training. The modules emphasize interaction, application, and clinically integrated learning and teaching methods in peer groups. In 2005 - 2008, after completion of each tutorial, GP registrars were asked to fill in a questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale to assess the programme's methods and content. GP registrars were also asked to identify two learning points related to the programme.


RESULTS
The teaching programme consists of five 3-hour modules that include gender themes related to and frequently seen by GPs such as in doctor-patient communication and cardiovascular disease. GP registrars evaluated the training course positively. The written learning points suggest that GP registrars have increased their awareness of why attention to gender-specific information is relevant.


CONCLUSIONS
In summary, gender-specific medicine training has been successfully integrated into an existing GP training curriculum. The modules and teaching methods are transferable to other training institutes for postgraduate training. The evaluation of the teaching programme shows a positive impact on GP registrars' gender awareness.
Dielissen
Patrick W
PW
Department of Primary Care and Community Care, Radboud University, Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, intern code 166, 6500 HB Nijmegen, the Netherlands. P.Dielissen@elg.umcn.nl
Bottema
Ben J A M
BJ
Verdonk
Petra
P
Lagro-Janssen
Toine L M
TL
D003479:Curriculum / Q000592:standards*; D003625:Data Collection; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D009426:Netherlands; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000193:education*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012042:Registries; D012737:Sex Factors; D013663:Teaching