Open Forum - Special Collection: Reflecting on the Past and Shaping the Future Mapping scholarly continuing professional development publications in the South African Family Practice journal (2020–2025): Trends, gaps, and a call for contributions

Mareike Rabe, Ramprakash Kaswa, Klaus B. von Pressentin

About the author(s) Mareike Rabe, Vita Oncology, Cape Town, South Africa
Ramprakash Kaswa, Department of Family Medicine and Rural Health, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
Klaus B. von Pressentin, Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family, Community and Emergency Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Continuing professional development (CPD) comprises self-directed educational activities that are vital to the lifelong learning of healthcare professionals. It maintains competence, adapts to new guidelines, and supports evidence-based practice. In South Africa, professional boards mandate CPD, which is offered via journals, webinars, courses, conferences, and digital platforms. We evaluated CPD articles in the South African Family Practice (SAFP) journal from 2020 to 2025. Clinical content dominated, with guidance on infectious and chronic diseases. However, online engagement was limited. This 6-year snapshot, part of the journal’s 45-year celebration, emphasises SAFP’s role in advancing primary care education. It also highlights opportunities for greater inclusivity and accessibility, for innovation in CPD publishing, and the need for future evaluations of readership patterns and practitioners’ needs.
Contribution: This article reviews CPD publishing in SAFP over 6 years, focusing on themes, authorship, and engagement challenges within its 45-year legacy of promoting lifelong learning in primary care.

Keywords

continuing professional development; family medicine; primary healthcare; medical education; South Africa

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