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Beyond Borders: Learning Through the XXX General Practice Exchange Programmes

Katie DAVIES, Amy THOMPSON, Roomana KAPASI, Ioannis SAXIONIS, Rishi CALEYACHandTY and Charlotte MORRIS

The XXX supports global primary care collaboration through education, research, and exchange opportunities for GP trainees and First5 GPs. With more than a decade of XXX-facilitated exchanges, the XXX Programme provides structured, short-term placements that strengthen professional development and cross-cultural understanding. Established pathways such as the Hippokrates Exchange (two-week European placements), Family Medicine 360 (FM360; global exchanges up to four weeks), specific country exchanges, and Conference Exchange initiatives enable participants to gain experiential learning aligned with XXX curriculum domains, including equality, diversity and inclusion, leadership, and working effectively within organisations and systems of care.The workshop aims to familiarise participants with the purpose, structure, and application processes of the Exchange Programmes and to demonstrate how international exchanges enhance clinical insight, reflective practice, and leadership growth. Participants will explore how exchanges broaden global networks, enrich GP training, and support portfolio development or quality improvement activities.The session will begin with an overview presentation outlining each exchange programme, key learning objectives, application and hosting processes, and examples of clinical or conference-linked activities. Following this, participants will join facilitated breakout groups led by members. These small-group discussions will encourage shared experiences, questions, and reflection on personal learning goals, helping attendees identify pathways to participation.By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to describe the range and purpose of XXX Exchange Programmes and articulate how these experiences contribute to personal and professional development. They will be able to reflect on competencies related to the XXX curriculum, including cultural competence, communication, and system-level awareness. Attendees will leave with practical knowledge on how to apply, host, and integrate exchange learning into their clinical practice, training portfolios or quality improvement projects.This interactive session highlights how XXX Exchanges provide transformative opportunities for early-career GPs, fostering global collaboration, revitalising professional enthusiasm, and equipping participants with skills that enhance patient care and strengthen primary care systems internationally.