Which ‘end’ do you have in mind? Clinical supervisors’ perceptions of Professional Identity Formation outcomes in GP residency

Abstract

Purpose Professional Identity Formation (PIF) is crucial for high-quality patient care and physician well-being. Few empirical studies examined PIF in residency from the perspective of supervisors. In GP residency, residents are supervised with an ‘end in mind’ that remains unexplored. To encourage supervisors to reflect on their teaching behaviours, this study investigated GP clinical supervisors’ perceptions of PIF outcomes in GP residency. Methods Applying qualitative description, focus group interviews were conducted between spring and autumn 2019. Using a semi-structured interview guide, supervisors’ perceptions of PIF outcomes were explored. In an iterative coding process applying constant comparison, a thematic analysis was performed of focus group transcripts. Results We conducted eight focus groups with 55 supervisors at four training institutes across the Netherlands. Half of the supervisors were female. GP supervisors tend to address the ‘poor GP’ when prompted to address the ‘good GP’. PIF outcomes in GP residency should revolve around taking ownership in patient care, self-care and the persistence of GP as a profession. Conclusion PIF can be challenged by a lack of positive language. Supervisors’ strong beliefs regarding ideals of the profession potentially compromise PIF when they do not resonate with residents’ beliefs, resulting in poor educational alliance.