Introducing performance-based assessment of family physicians

Abstract

Slovenia has implemented a new final summative assessment for vocational training in family medicine. As all family medicine trainees work independently in practice, the assessment is focused on actual performance. The preparation included a literature search, consultation with foreign experts, consultation with tutors and trainees in general practice and testing the assessment with experienced practitioners. The assessment includes three elements: (1) a trainee's report with data on population served, audit of practice and family profiles; (2) a visit to the trainee's practice which includes sitting in with the trainee, and assessment of patients' records, equipment and premises; (3) the final assessment, which includes an MCQ written test, OSCE stations, and an oral exam with discussion about the candidate's report, presentation of five cases from his/her practice and one question by each examiner to assess problem-solving skills. Initial experience h as been favourable but further work is needed for evaluation of the assessment.