Objective: The purpose of the present research was to study the model of competency development of Thai physicians. And find the desired performance, including a model that will be a guideline for Thai doctors to be consistent and suitable for Thai society both in the present and in the future.

Materials and Methods: The present study used qualitative and quantitative technique combinations. Data were acquired using the Delphi technique; three experts selected 21 experts from different domains with in-depth knowledge of Thai medical competence. Several basic elements were built through in-depth interviews with five-level Likert items for 21 experts’ content analysis and three-level Likert items for three experts’ content validity. The analysis was based on the items of objectives congruence (IOC), the median (MD) and the quartile deviation (QD). A focus group discussion was then held with other qualified medical professionals on the competence development model for Thai physicians, which is widely acknowledged in the medical community.

Results: Five current problems affecting the work performance of Thai physicians were identified. Medical knowledge, patient care, professionalism, compliance with system-based learning, practice-based learning, and interpersonal relationships and communication skills are desirable competencies of Thai physicians. Final Thai doctors’ competency development model was designed, combining individual, organizational, network, and enable environmental development.

Conclusion: The present study has demonstrated validity and reliability in measuring medical competence in Thailand and can be utilized in government health policies to improve the quality of public health services and encourage and cultivate doctors with higher competency and strong expertise.

Keywords: Competency Development; Thai Physicians; Model; Competency; Delphi

DOI: doi.org/10.35755/jmedassocthai.2021.08.8669

Received 20 February 2020 | Revised 15 May 2020 | Accepted 15 January 2021