title: Learning Together 1: an educational model for training GPs, paediatricians: initial findings.
abstract: Learning Together is primarily an educational intervention, where paediatric registrars [SpRs] and General Practice (GP) registrars [GPSTs] see children together in a primary care setting. Over a six month period in 2013/2014, 44 learning pairs were set up mainly in North East and Central London. Proof of concept for the model at scale was achieved. Reported learning demonstrated: clinical learning themes of new knowledge, skill and communication skills; and collaborative themes of ongoing collaboration, satisfaction with team working and change in attitudes. These themes were identified in both sets of trainees. The self-reported learning is backed up by the results of a retrospective notes review of four common conditions based on NICE guidelines; constipation, asthma, feverish illness and eczema (CAFE). Guidance adherence improved from 57% before the intervention in solo GP training consultations to 72% during the joint clinic intervention (p < 0.01). After the intervention when the GP registrars returned to normal consultations, guidance adherence was 77% compared to before the intervention (p < 0.01). In addition 99% of the parents, who handed in feedback forms or took part in interviews, reported a good experience of care, and 87% reported increased confidence to manage their children's health following the consultation. A second, linked article examines the cost utility of Learning Together in its South London extension.
authors.affiliation: a The Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital , London , UK.
authors.forename: Chloe
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Macaulay
authors.affiliation: b Primary Care Education , Health Education England [South London] , UK.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Spicer
authors.affiliation: c Independent Analysist, Learning Together South London , UK.
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Riches
authors.affiliation: d Integrated Community Child Health , UCL and Programme Director Children and Young People, UCL Partners , London , UK.
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lakhanpaul
mesh_terms: D001249:Asthma; D002648:Child; D003248:Constipation; D004485:Eczema; D005334:Fever; D058005:General Practitioners / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000379:methods*; D007858:Learning; D008131:London; D017145:Models, Educational; D000072143:Pediatricians / Q000193:education*; D000070356:Pilots; D012189:Retrospective Studies
keywords: General practice; Learning Together; children; health; integrated; paediatrics