TY - JOUR T1 - Peer-support writing group in a community family medicine teaching unit JF - Canadian Family Physician JO - Can Fam Physician SP - e724 LP - e730 VL - 62 IS - 12 AU - Lina Al-Imari AU - Jaisy Yang AU - Nicholas Pimlott Y1 - 2016/12/01 UR - http://www.cfp.ca/content/62/12/e724.abstract N2 - Problem addressed Aspiring physician writers need an environment that promotes self-reflection and can help them improve their skills and confidence in writing.Objective of program To create a peer-support writing group for physicians in the Markham-Stouffville community in Ontario to promote professional development by encouraging self-reflection and fostering the concept of physician as writer.Program description The program, designed based on a literature review and a needs assessment, was conducted in 3 sessions over 6 months. Participants included an emergency physician, 4 family physicians, and 3 residents. Four to 8 participants per session shared their projects with guest physician authors. Eight pieces of written work were brought to the sessions, 3 of which were edited. A mixed quantitative and qualitative evaluation model was used with preprogram and postprogram questionnaires and a focus group.Conclusion This program promoted professional development by increasing participants’ frequency of self-reflection and improving their proficiency in writing. Successful elements of this program include creating a supportive group environment and having a physician-writer expert facilitate the peer-feedback sessions. Similar programs can be useful in postgraduate education or continuing professional development. ER -