Understanding the experiences of and attitudes towards Medical Appraisal 2020

What were the key findings?

• Discussions on wellbeing-based were described as supportive, person-centred conversations. They were seen as relevant now and in the future.
• The appraisee/appraiser relationship was viewed as a barrier to discussions. As was the knowledge and skills of the appraiser, and the perceived risk of raising a wellbeing concern.
• The reduction in pre-appraisal paperwork benefited many appraisees.
• Most appraisers and responsible officers said the reduced paperwork was still the right amount of detail to make a revalidation recommendation.
• Concerns that the responsibility to document information about the doctor’s practice during the appraisal discussion was solely on the appraiser were raised. 
• There needs to be information and training to make sure appraisers have knowledge and confidence in wellbeing discussions. 
• Local measures must be in place to make sure any wellbeing concerns raised are responsed to in a way that helps the doctor get the support they need. 

Why did we commission this research?

We asked for this research to understand the views of appraisees, appraisers and responsible officers. We wanted to hear their views about the model of appraisal introduced in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. This is also known as Medical Appraisal 2020. 

What did the research involve?

Independent research agency ICE Creates did an online survey with 832 appraisees and appraisers. They followed up with telephone interview to provide a more in-depth understanding of experiences. 

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Download Understanding the experiences of and attitudes towards Medical Appraisal 2020.