Officially launched during the WONCA Europe Conference in Kos in 2005, the Vasco da Gama Movement (VdGM) is now a broadening network for GP trainees and junior GPs (within five years of qualification as a GP). The annual pre-conference which takes place a day prior to the WONCA Europe Conference, is an occasion to meet with junior GPs in order share experiences and to learn about different healthcare systems, training structures and cultures in Europe. The VdGM is a working group of WONCA Europe, therefore, every country member of WONCA Europe is invited to appoint a representative to the VdGM Europe Council and attend the annual preconference. Beyond the pre-conference and Europe Council, VdGM is open to all trainees and junior GPs who are interested in topics such as Recruitment, Exchange, Education, Training and Research in primary care in an international setting. European juniors interested in these topics can register as a member of the various theme groups, which can be found on the VdGM website (www.vdgm.eu).
An excellent example of the advantages of an international network is the Hippokrates exchange programme. The Hippokrates exchange programme was established nine years ago under the auspices of EURACT. It programme consists of a two-week long observational placement in a GP practice in another country, currently within Europe. Over the past year the VdGM has collaborated to stimulate the participation on the programme.
The exchange offers the opportunity to learn about another primary healthcare system, live in a different culture and savour a real taste of what life is really like for a family doctor outside one's own country. It enables junior family doctors to reflect on their own practise, allows the sharing of knowledge and experiences at an international level, as well as improves language skills, and creates new professional and personal relationships.
It is a unique experience, that we hope in the future will become an integral part of GP training as it inspires junior doctors to take an active part in the development of Family Medicine. Furthermore, it enhances collaboration between the national organisations of General Practice. You can find further details on Hippokrates and further exchange opportunities on the ‘Exchange’ section of the VdGM web site (www.vdgm.eu), which will soon be able to host online applications.