Continuing professional development for GPs in Myanmar: a pilot programme

Background The quality of general practice in Myanmar is currently highly variable. No formalised system of revalidation yet exists and so engagement with continuing professional development (CPD) activities and motivation to further one’s own knowledge is sporadic.

Aim To train GPs in three key areas; 1) recording CPD activities and maintaining a portfolio logbook; 2) reflecting on learning; and 3) what a future formalised CPD credit system may involve.

Method Sixty-one GPs were recruited in March 2019 and given training on the above. Logbooks were issued, which were completed by the GPs while attending a simultaneous 3-month ‘GP CPD Refresher’ course, organised by the GP Society of Myanmar. The logbooks were then marked and individualised feedback given before issuing CPD accredited certificates.

Results All GPs agreed the pilot helped them to better understand how to maintain a CPD logbook and the importance of doing so (retention rate = 67%). All GPs also reported they would now be more likely to continue to keep a portfolio. Finally, all GPs surveyed felt a credit reward system, used as tangible evidence of CPD participation, would positively influence their future engagement with CPD.

Conclusion Improving general practice is a key component in helping Myanmar develop its healthcare system; one step required is making engagement with CPD compulsory for the revalidation of clinicians. This pilot has highlighted existing inadequacies within current training of GPs, as well as the potential benefits of implementing a CPD credit reward system.