Introducing performance-based assessment of family physicians

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.