Improving the quality of care for patients with chronic diseases: What research and education in family medicine can contribute

Abstract Background: The theme of the EGPRN conference in Ljubljana 2012 was 'Quality improvement in the care of chronic disease in family practice: the contribution of education and research.' Objective: In this contribution, we summarize our key note lectures and provide reflections on the theme. Results: Many countries have established programmes for training of primary care professionals and quality improvement in family medicine. Research and development has focused on new educational methods, practice accreditation, patient safety in primary care, models of structured chronic care, and tailored improvement. Conclusion: An international academic network of physicians, teachers and researchers in primary care should be nurtured to address the challenges of chronic illness care