[General practice quality circles in the large city. Participation by Hamburg general physicians].

Quality circles (peer review) will play an increasing and important role in ambulatory care when they are based on voluntary participation and in a setting of open discussion. Goal is the further qualification of physicians by critical reflections on their practice based on learning processes and the experiences of the participants. Reported are experiences from the unit for primary care and health service research of the Hamburg University on implementing quality circles. Engagement in quality assurance may be helpful in the shaping and professionalisation of general practice.