Research Interests of the Institute of Family Medicine

The Institute of Family Medicine at the University of Fribourg is one of nine academic centers for family medicine in Switzerland. Our multidisciplinary research team includes general practitioners, pharmacists, and psychologists. We are committed to training the next generation of physicians by supervising Master's, MD, and PhD theses in clinical and academic research.

We conduct leading primary care research in the canton of Fribourg and across the broader Swiss healthcare system. Our goal is to support general practitioners by generating practical, evidence-based insights. Our research methods range from randomized clinical trials in general practice to surveys and mixed-methods studies, including implementation science, depending on the research objectives. We have established strong partnerships with a network of practicing general practitioners, ambulatory care services, and academic institutions both in Switzerland and internationally. We are a member of the European General Practice Research Network and always keen to explore avenues for new collaborations!

Key research areas include:

• Advanced Care Planning in primary care, including High Value Care
• Randomized clinical trials in primary care, including that of plant-based medicines for common conditions such as bronchitis
• Integrative and complementary medicine in the care of elderly patients and those with cancer
• Cancer screening, and the quality of life and care needs of patients with cancer
• Organization and reform of the Swiss primary care health system
• Career choices and motivators of medical graduates in pursuing a career in general practice