Multi-source feedback for doctors
One of the elements required for revalidation is participation in an independent process for obtaining feedback from patients (where applicable) and colleagues. This is sometimes known as 360-degree or multi-source feedback.
We have been developing colleague and patient questionnaires for use within the revalidation process based on the standards contained in Good Medical Practice. Early research by Peninsula Medical School into the validity, reliability and practicality of the questionnaires has been encouraging.
There have also been more extensive pilot studies to test the psychometric performance of the questionnaires and look further into their feasibility and the operational rules for their possible use. This independent research has found that questionnaires have the potential to be a reliable means of collecting information regarding doctors' performance.
However, further work needs to be done and we have commissioned more in-depth testing of the questionnaire tools across whole organisations and in different clinical settings.
The results of the pilot study conducted by Professor John Campbell
of Peninsula Medical School were published in June 2008. The full
article is available for you to read online in the Quality and Safety
in Health Care Journal 
.
A GMC
press release about the research is also available for you to
read.