Conceptual skill in physicians: An overlooked basic competency

Introduction: There is currently little effort to train physicians regarding leadership and management skills in medical education; however, it is acknowledged that attainment of such competencies is no longer an optional extra for doctors. Meeting this challenge is essential for healthcare system development. This study was conducted to assess general practitioners' (GPs') conceptual skill as one of the key components and basic management skills. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study which conducted among new graduate GPs from Iran in 2009. Using a systematic sampling method, 141 samples were selected. A valid and reliable questionnaire with 23 questions in 6 domains was applied. The data were analyzed with SPSS software. Results: A total of 141 questionnaires were completed. Of the 141 GPs, 29.8% had a desirable level of conceptual skill, and the others had a moderate level. Ranging from 23 to 115, the mean scores of men and women were 80.74 (SD 7.18) and 80.76 (SD 6.57), respectively (P= 0.983). The total score for the married GPs (18% were married) was 85.52 (SD 3.32), while it was 79.72 (SD 7.01) for the singles (P<0.001). This correlation was supported by linear regression results (P<0.001). The mean rank order of conceptual skill domains indicated that, the highest and lowest ranks were assigned to goal setting and achieving, and strategic thinking and planning domains, respectively. Conclusion: The results suggest that more attention be paid to training physicians in management skills. Also, further research on the assessment of these skills in physicians is recommended. It would be useful to adapt the physicians' competencies to the changing healthcare system.