Hippokrates is an exchange programme for medical doctors specialising in Family Medicine/General Practice and junior Family Doctors/General Practitioners (within 5 years of completing specialty training). The programme is supported by WONCA Europe and by the European Academy of Teachers in General Practice (EURACT).

The aim of Hippokrates is to encourage exchange and mobility among young doctors in the course of their professional formation as General Practitioners; thus providing a broader perspective to the concepts of Family Medicine at both professional and personal levels.

Participants of the programme acquire an insight into the context of General Practice in the primary healthcare system of other European countries either by hosting an exchange participant or visiting a GP practice in a another country. Through this they gain knowledge that will inspire them to undertake an active part in the development of Family Medicine at all levels.

Furthermore the programme enhances the collaboration among national colleges of Family Medicine and the recruitment of young professionals to these.

At the individual level the acquisitions are numerous; an international experience in a vocational setting, improving knowledge and skills, inspirational introduction to methods of professional development for lifelong learning, improving language skills, creating new friendships.

The duration of an Exchange is normally two weeks, in some cases 1 week is acceptable. During this time the visitor will obtain an introduction to the aspects and the role of Family Medicine in the respective country by shadowing all activities of the Host Practice. The visitor should also meet, follow and exchange views with the local trainees specialising in Family Medicine and will be encouraged to gain insight into local resources and quality improvement activities as well as local healthcare structures.