Training in critical thinking and research: an audit of delivery by regional training providers in Australia

Background: Critical thinking and research are important career skills for general practitioners. Vocational training in this aspect of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) curriculum varies between regional training providers (RTPs). Methods: A cross-sectional audit examining the delivery of the 'critical thinking and research' component of the RACGP curriculum at the RTP level, and documenting factors related to capacity and competence to deliver this training. Results: Heterogeneity across RTPs was seen in the mode and intensity of education activities pertaining to critical thinking and research and in surrogate measures of capacity and competence to deliver this training. Discussion: This study suggests that the training general practice registrars receive in research and critical thinking may vary according to which RTP delivers the training. This is of concern as it means that the knowledge and skills base of the next generation of GPs in this area is likely to be similarly variable, impacting on their ability to practise high quality, evidence based medicine. Critical thinking and research should be recognised as a priority area in vocational training across all RTPs.