Mixed-methods evaluation of family medicine research training and peer mentorship in Lesotho
Afr. j. prim. health care fam. med. (Online)
; 12(1): 1-17, 2020. ilus
Article
in En
| AIM
| ID: biblio-1257741
Responsible library:
CG1.1
ABSTRACT
Background:
Strengthening primary care research capacity is a priority globally. Family medicine training programmes in sub-Saharan Africa represent an important opportunity to build primary care research; however, they are often limited by insufficient research training and mentorship. Peers can be used to extend research mentorship capacity, but have not been evaluated in this context.Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate one family medicine training programme's research capacity building efforts through a blended research curriculum and peer mentorship.Setting:
Lesotho is a landlocked country within South Africa of approximately two million people. The Family Medicine Specialty Training Programme (FMSTP) is the only accredited postgraduate medical education programme in Lesotho.Methods:
This two-year mixed-methods evaluation used (1) Likert-scale surveys measuring trainee research confidence, (2) written evaluations by trainees, peers, programme faculty and administrators and (3) in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Survey data were analysed using Friedman and sign tests. Interview and written data were analysed thematically via a mixed inductive-deductive approach using Cooke's framework.Results:
Family Medicine Specialty Training Programme trainees (n = 8) experienced moderate increases in research confidence that were statistically significant. Skill-building occurred primarily via experiential learning. Research was grounded in trainees' clinical practice and locally relevant. A positive research culture was created, promising for sustainability. We identified infrastructure gaps, including funding and protected time. Peer research mentorship supported trainees' motivation and provided a safe space for questions.Conclusion:
The FMSTP research curriculum and peer mentorship programme were successful in positively impacting a number of Cooke's research capacity domains. This evaluation identified improvements that are now being implemented
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Index:
AIM
Main subject:
Primary Health Care
/
Research
/
Family Practice
/
Peer Influence
/
Lesotho
Type of study:
Qualitative_research
Country/Region as subject:
Africa
Language:
En
Journal:
Afr. j. prim. health care fam. med. (Online)
Year:
2020
Type:
Article