The influence of the National Health Service on general practitioner postgraduate education in the context of the development of general practice in Birmingham

This study traces the changes in the postgraduate education of General Practitioners in the city of Birmingham during the twentieth century. It begins by considering national milestones in the form of government reports and major conferences. In addition to describing the creation of national bodies, such as the General Medical Council and British Medical Association, it also provides information on local organisations including the Midland Medical Society and the Midland Faculty of the Royal College of General Practitioners and their role in developing training programmes. The increase in GP Training Practices in Birmingham after the inauguration of the National Health Service is analysed statistically. Central educational initiatives such as Half-Day Release Courses and Vocational Training Schemes are traced by means of developments in their curriculum. The contribution of the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board and West Midlands Regional Health Authority is also assessed.