Improving information management in family practice: testing an adult learning model

Information management training has been neglected in family practice in the UK in the past. An adult learning model for such training is introduced. A pilot study using the adult learning approach showed improvements in information management processes over the six-month study period. The research project described in this paper compares the effectiveness of on-site training using adult learning methods, written information, and no intervention, in 33 family practices in the UK. Nine of the eleven practices in the on-site training group completed the training sessions and eight provided full data, whereas only one of the eleven practices in the written information group, and only one of the eleven practices in the control group provided full data. Preliminary analysis demonstrates that on-site training practices made considerable changes to the information systems in their practices, and appreciated the importance of high-quality data, both for patient care and reporting requirements. Full comparisons of data quality and information management methods are presented, and an assessment of priority training needs for maximum benefit is made.