| Theme | Theme description | Percentage of total responders (n = 95) | Illustrative quote(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Content and format | Importance of engaging and practical podcast content, suggesting a mix of clinical and non-clinical topics, concise podcasts with summaries, interactive elements such as quizzes, and easy, free access through popular platforms | 34.7% |
'Good practical topics, also presented in a concise way, not too long, interactive and practical.' GPST
'Reliable source, clarity in audio, relatable topics, able to access offline.' GPST 'Maybe a quiz you can access after listening to the podcast.' GPT |
| Awareness | Improving awareness of high-quality medical education podcasts, through the provision of curated lists by trusted sources such as NES or RCGP, and sharing recommendations through newsletters or conferences | 28.4% |
'NES to provide list of useful podcasts for GPs / GP trainees.' GPST
'Better signposting to good resource (currently really just word of mouth).' GPT 'Easy list or source of reliable good-quality medical education podcasts.' GPT |
| Relevance | Need for UK and Scotland-specific podcasts, addressing local guidelines and challenges. GPSTs requested podcasts that help prepare them for GP examinations | 18.9% |
'Scottish/UK base guideline approach to primary care would be useful.' GPST
'Take into account challenges of living in parts of Scotland where some tests/treatments etc may not be available.' GPST 'Tailoring the podcasts to the needs of a GPST preparing for RCGP examinations.' GPST |
| Quality assurance | Need for podcasts to provide accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information, suggesting a peer-review process or external evaluation by recognised institutions such as NES or RCGP | 13.7% |
'Validity testing/endosrsement by NES for example.' GPST
'Some external evaluation of quality and safety of the content — a certification process.' GPT 'I don't know whether there is e.g., some sort of peer-reviewing process for some podcasts — I would probably trust them a little more.' GPST |
GPST = GP specialty trainee. GPT = GP trainer. NES = NHS Education for Scotland. RCGP = Royal College of General Practitioners.