1. Undergraduate Medical Degree (MBBS, MD, or equivalent):
* This is the foundational requirement. The duration typically ranges from 4 to 7 years, depending on the country and specific program. This involves rigorous study in various medical disciplines, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical rotations in different specialties.
2. Postgraduate Training/Residency in Family Medicine/General Practice:
* After graduating medical school, aspiring GPs must complete a postgraduate residency program specifically in family medicine or general practice. This is a crucial step to gain practical experience and develop the necessary skills for independent practice. The length of residency varies, but it's typically 3-5 years. During this time, residents rotate through various settings (hospitals, clinics, community health centers) and gain supervised experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of conditions across the lifespan.
3. Licensing and Certification:
* Upon successful completion of residency, physicians must obtain a medical license from the relevant licensing board in their country or region. This usually involves passing licensing examinations that demonstrate competency in medical knowledge and practice. Certification in family medicine/general practice may also be required or sought after, demonstrating a specific level of expertise in the field.
4. Continuing Medical Education (CME):
* Maintaining licensure usually requires ongoing participation in CME activities. This ensures GPs stay updated on the latest medical advancements, treatments, and best practices throughout their careers.
Specific Variations:
* Country-Specific Requirements: The specifics (duration of training, examination requirements, licensing bodies) will vary significantly between countries. For example, the US uses a residency system, while some other countries may have different structured training pathways.
* Specializations within Family Medicine: Some GPs may pursue further sub-specialization within family medicine, such as geriatrics, sports medicine, or palliative care, which would require additional training beyond the core residency.
In summary, becoming a Family and General Practitioner involves a considerable investment in education and training, typically spanning at least 10 years post-high school, and requiring rigorous academic and practical experience. To get precise details for a specific country or region, you should consult the relevant medical licensing board or medical school websites.