Hospital visiting in obstetrics and gynecology: A tool for the advancement of training

Objective: To assess the improvement of obstetric and gynecologic training brought about by peer influence in Europe. Methods: In 1996, the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (EBCOG) initiated a visiting process by international and local peers to improve training and decrease differences in health care standards. Results: A large number of visits of obstetrics and gynecology departments have been conducted across Europe at teaching hospitals by the Hospital Visiting Committee. Compliance with the structured approach of the visiting policy and problems met during these visits are reported. Conclusion: The program focuses on the continuous improvement of the competencies of all persons trained in the obstetrics and gynecology departments of teaching hospitals throughout Europe. It also increases the understanding of diversity in training methods and can gradually lead to the convergence of training and health care standards in Europe. (c) 2006 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.