E-learning may be a cost-efficient alternative or addition to traditional continuous medical education (CME) face-to-face courses. Even though some data are available regarding views on e-learning of general medicine physicians, preferences of psychiatrists have not been systematically assessed as yet.

To assess early career psychiatrists' (ECPs) preferences on e-learning.

To explore: 1) What do early career psychiatrists want to learn via e-learning? 2) How should e-learning be provided?

Online focus groups were conducted via skype. Participants were purposively sampled for professional qualification (trainees/newly-qualified psychiatrists) and recruited in 14 European countries. Qualitative analysis of the data is in progress. Preliminary findings are presented.

Four focus groups with in total 20 early career psychiatrists from different countries were conducted. The number of participants to focus groups varied from four to seven.

ECPs would use e-learning to learn about topics not normally thaught during standard psychiatric training, and to have contact with experts in the field. E-learning courses on general basic knowledge (psychotherapy theories, psycho-pharmacology) need to be related to clinical practice.

ECPs suggested that e-learning courses should be interactive, user-friendly and accredited by national authorities. Cost of e-learning courses and lack of awareness of e-learning opportunities are significant barriers to access, particularly for trainees.

Access of ECPs to e-learning may be increased by offering information on courses and affordable fees. Content-wise, e-learning should provide specialist knowledge or training in generic skills closely related to practice. E-learning courses should be delivered by renowned international experts.