Evaluation of GP appraiser development centres using emotional intelligence: can positive learning outcomes be transferred to practice?

This paper describes a longitudinal evaluation of six pilot medical appraiser development centres (ADCs) with GPs held between February and September 2009 in the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Deanery. The ADCs were developed using traditional development centre methods and incorporated the concept of emotional intelligence (El). Initial evaluation results have shown positive short-term outcomes relating to appraiser skills and self-confidence as well as transfer of learning. This paper extends this earlier evaluation by looking at appraiser and appraisee feedback approximately one year after the ADCs using a validated framework for training evaluation. We discuss the long-term affective, cognitive and behavioural learning outcomes and the impact participation in the ADCs has on the broader healthcare system, including effects upon patient care and safety. Limitations of the current project and opportunities for future research are discussed.