Continuing education and clinical research for the training of obstetricians and gynecologists in Europe

The need for doctors to develop in their profession and in science applies to all ages and at all hierarchical levels. This development can be sustained both via education and research. In this brief paper, we examine certain crucial aspects of education and research in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) as they are actually observed in Europe. The need for uniform development of continuing professional development (CPD) among all European countries is progressively becoming apparent. There is no single approach to CPD. Junior doctors should benefit from the teaching of senior obstetricians and gynecologists, especially those in a hierarchical system of training that must assure their progress. Hospital visiting organized by EBCOG enables OB/GYN departments of teaching hospitals to unify their teaching and learning approaches. Furthermore, improving the ability of trainees and specialists to conduct clinical research is vital, as this will transform the breakthroughs of basic science into clinical practice. A formal training period in research should be available to most competent trainees in OB/GYN in addition to their basic clinical training.