Needs assessment for enhancing the preparation of general practitioners enrolling in the Peruvian mandatory rural service: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background Peru’s Rural and Marginal Urban Health Service (SERUMS) aims to improve healthcare in rural and marginal areas. Despite its objectives, a gap exists between training General Practitioners (GPs) and the competencies required for SERUMS. This study assesses GPs' self-perceived competencies and training needs for SERUMS. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted involving GPs who enrolled in SERUMS between 2020 and 2022. A questionnaire was developed based on the Ministry of Health's competency framework, assessing 21 minimal achievement conditions. The survey was distributed via Google Forms and included sections on sociodemographic information, SERUMS characteristics, self-perceived competencies, and training needs. Results Out of 190 GPs who participated, most were female, over 27 years old, and graduates from private universities with mixed-setting internships. The highest self-perceived competencies were in low-complexity problem management, communication, and professionalism. However, competencies in research, leadership, and health system management were rated lowest. The primary resource for training was self-study, with a preference for active learning methods for future training. Perceived training needs were in therapeutic competencies, the Peruvian health system, diagnostic competencies, administrative tasks, and interprofessional competencies. Conclusions This study reveals significant gaps in the training and competencies of Peruvian GPs for SERUMS. It emphasizes the need for a tailored curriculum incorporating active learning and focusing on clinical reasoning, leadership, and interprofessional competencies. This approach would better prepare GPs for SERUMS and enhance their self-efficacy and effectiveness in primary care. Leading to a better quality of care for these neglected populations.