Lateral entry into general practice - an explorative analysis of general practice trainees in the competence centre for postgraduate medical education Baden-Württemberg

Objective: To aid the shortage of general practitioners (GPs) in Germany, since 2011 medical specialists from other fields may switch specialisation by undergoing a slim-lined training programme (lateral entry) into general practice (GP). Available published qualitative and quantitative data on lateral entrants (LEs) is scarce. Aim of the study was an explorative analysis of LEs in the competence centre for postgraduate medical education Baden-Wuerttemberg (KWBW). Methods: In 2016, a multicentric cohort study was initiated including all GP trainees entering the KWBW. Data from 2016 to 2022 was included (T0). A follow-up with graduates from the KWBW was performed once in 2023 (T1). Surveys at T0 and T1 were self-developed, piloted, and included questions on social demography, education, qualification, current training, working environment and professional plans. Dataset was analysed exploratively. Results: At T0, 884 GP trainees participated (response 95.2%). 23.8% of participants were LEs (N=210). Most LEs were specialists from anaesthesiology (34.8%), internal medicine (28.5%) and surgery (20.6%). LEs had been working in their previous specialty for a median of 3 years before starting GP-training. At T0, LEs were seven years older than their colleagues (p<0,001). The proportion of men among LEs was higher (34.3% vs 25.1%, p=0,009). LEs were more decisive to open their own GP practice (p=0,009). At T1, 48 LEs participated of which 92% were practising GPs (N=36). 64,5% considered themselves rural GPs and work in communities <20.000 people (N=36). LEs mainly choose GP because of its specific way of working, job dissatisfaction and personal motives such as opportunity to start a practice. Most LEs strongly agreed that they would switch to GP again. Discussion: LEs are a relevant party among GP trainees. Many LEs become self-employed and contribute essentially to providing primary care. Lateral entry attracts specialists, also from rural areas, seeking for professional satisfaction. This is why LEs should follow their new path within a regional competence centre providing GP specific courses, mentoring and a professional network. Conclusions: LEs graduating from KWBW have become an important pillar of primary care in Baden-Wuerttemberg.