J Korean Med Assoc.  2013 Oct;56(10):891-898. 10.5124/jkma.2013.56.10.891.

Reforming medical education for strengthening primary care

• Kim K
• Lee S
• Park H

• KMID: 2193413
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2013.56.10.891

Abstract

Primary care physicians who can deliver high quality primary care services are essential for strengthening the primary health care system. In Korea, primary care was regarded as substandard services practiced by any medical doctor without postgraduate education in primary care. The current and future health care systems are challenged by increasing complexity and co-morbidity and healthcare costs in medical care. The developed countries are preparing for the future by increasing support for basic, postgraduate, and continuing medical education in primary care. To strengthen the primary care in Korea, basic medical education programs should require experience in primary care clinics with a teaching and education function. Postgraduate primary care medical education must be enhanced to be qualified to practice in the community. The recognition of the importance of primary care and the need for changes in the current education and healthcare system among medical professionals and other stakeholders and support systems such as legislation and finance for primary care medical education.

Keyword

Primary health care; Education; Residence characteristics

MeSH Terms

Delivery of Health Care
Developed Countries
Education, Medical
Education, Medical, Continuing
Health Care Costs
Humans
Korea
Physicians, Primary Care
Primary Health Care
Residence Characteristics

Figure

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  Figure 1 Basic competency versus primary care competency. Primary care physicians need training and development beyond basic competency.

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