BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: While many resources have been invested in sending Japanese physicians for advanced training in family medicine abroad, no known research examines the nature of their experiences. The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact of family medicine faculty development training abroad on participating Japanese physicians. METHODS: We distributed a self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire to physicians identified as having completed a faculty development program abroad. RESULTS: Sixteen (response rate 94%) physicians participated. The participants' a priori goals included learning about family medicine and developing teaching skills. From observing precepting and small-group discussions, they learned new teaching approaches. Most reported their fellowship training as influencing current teaching, clinical, and research activities and as particularly enhancing their interest in clinical skills, learner-oriented teaching, and the doctor-patient relationship. They also reported formulating new ideas regarding teaching activities, department structure, and clinical care during their fellowships, though they have encountered barriers to implementing such reforms after returning to Japan. CONCLUSIONS: Faculty development training abroad contributes to all major aspects of physicians' professional lives after returning to Japan, although many report difficulties implementing new teaching ideas after their return.
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