Evaluating the impact of the Duties of a doctor programme

What were the key findings?

• The duties of doctor programme improved participants’ understanding of the role of the GMC. Is also improved perceptions that the GMC were more approachable. Although these improvements were not maintained at three months. 
• Attendees had greater awareness of GMC resources and services. And greater understanding and more frequent use of the GMC guidance. These positive changes remained three months later. 
• The programme had a greater impact on views of using confidentiality guidance and raising patient concerns than for reflection on practice. 
• The Regional Liaison Advisors facilitating the programme were crucial in changing attitudes. They were the ‘friendly face’ of the GMC and possessed vital expertise, such as highly developed interpersonal skills.

Why did we commission this research?

To evaluate the impact of the duties of a doctor programme. And to determine if it changes doctors’ professional behaviour over time.

What did the research involve?

The research was delivered by UCL medical school. It included interviews with Regional Liaison Advisors and programme participants, observations of duties of a doctor sessions. It also included a quantitative survey to measure intentions and behaviours before the programme, after the programme and three months later.

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