Examining positive views from students, trainees and GPs about general practice: a generational problem? A set of qualitative studies in France

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the positive factors related to working in general practice in France, from a student studying medicine, trainee general practitioner (GP) and GP point of view. SETTING: Primary care, France. DESIGN: Nine different qualitative studies involving medical students, trainees and GPs. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty-seven medical students, 22 trainees in general practice and 71 GPs. RESULTS: The final codebook contained 66 interpretative codes and 8 positive themes. The themes were general practice as a commitment, doctor–patient care and relationships, skills and competencies in general practice, practice organisation and work–life balance, relationship with the professional community, GPs and university, GPs in the social community and private life, relatives and family. Positive feelings about being a GP are similar throughout the different age groups, from young students to older professionals. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study provided a comprehensive picture of the satisfied GP across different ages. This picture describes GPs as patient-centred professionals who need to have the freedom to choose an efficient working environment, organise their practice, have opportunities for professional development and acquire specific competencies. Both younger and older GPs believe in the future of general practice.