Simplifying approach to appraisal for revalidation

We have published new guidance so all doctors are appraised against the same basic framework. We have also published guidance on the supporting information every doctor will need to collect to show they are keeping up to date and are fit to practise.

‘We know that many doctors want to know what will be expected of them when revalidation begins and we hope that these documents will help achieve this and to reassure those who were concerned that it would be overly time-consuming,’ said Professor Sir Peter Rubin, Chair of the GMC.

‘Doctors are already expected to show how they meet the principles and values of Good Medical Practice in their work and many are already collecting supporting information for their appraisals. This guidance will simply make clear what is expected of doctors and employers and make sure that doctors across the UK have access to more consistent and meaningful appraisals.’

There are two key documents:

• The Good Medical Practice Framework for appraisal and revalidation  sets out the principles and values that you are expected to demonstrate in your work and to discuss in your appraisal. This includes your specialty practice.
  
• Supporting information for appraisal and revalidation sets out what information you will need to collect for your appraisal, how often you will need to collect it and what you will be expected to do with it for your appraisal.

Both documents have been developed in discussion with the BMA and Academy of Royal Colleges to make sure that they will work for all doctors.

Making the system work locally

The four UK health departments will work closely with employers and Responsible Officers to help them introduce these changes into local appraisal systems before revalidation begins in late 2012. Employers are being asked to make sure that doctors have access to all the supporting information they need.

We expect that doctors will begin using the Framework and collecting what supporting information they can for their next appraisal so that they are fully prepared when revalidation begins. If in any doubt you should speak to your medical director or Responsible Officer.

The health departments and the Revalidation Support Team in England will be producing detailed, practical guidance on how appraisals will operate in each of the four countries.