How do family physicians benefit from this type of learning versus a presentation by a content expert?
Many studies have demonstrated that traditional continuing medical education strategies, including lectures by specialist colleagues, are unlikely to change the behaviour of family physicians. There has also been research support for many of the components used in small practice-based learning groups as a means of changing physician behaviour. These components include a trusted source of information, discussion with colleagues, assistance with practice implementation, provision of practice aids and feedback on clinical performance. In addition, there is now direct research evidence that physicians who participate in this type of program increase their knowledge base and subsequently change their clinical behaviour.
