Factors influencing the decision to become a supervisor: A qualitative study of early-career general practitioners and rural generalists.

Abstract

Background and objectives: General practitioner (GP) training in Australia relies on accredited GP supervisors facilitating workplace-based training for GP registrars. There is a shortage of supervisors that is likely to worsen. This research aimed to elucidate the perspectives of early-career GPs and rural generalists (RGs) about the barriers, motivators and enablers to becoming a GP supervisor.

Method: Qualitative descriptive methodology was used in the study. Transcripts from three focus groups and six semistructured interviews with 11 RGs (four registrars and seven new Fellows) and 13 GPs (all new Fellows) were analysed thematically.

Results: The following key themes were identified: being a good supervisor; motivated by past experiences of supervision; financial implications of being a supervisor; factors unique to rural settings; new models of supervision; and becoming a supervisor - how and when?

Discussion: The findings highlighted personal and professional barriers to becoming a GP supervisor and some enabling strategies to mitigate these barriers.