Setting and maintaining the professional standards 

To work in the UK, doctors, physician associates (PAs) and anaesthesia associates (AAs) must follow specific standards. We set these standards in consultation with doctors, PAs, AAs, patients and other stakeholders.

Our professional standards set out the values, knowledge, skills and behaviours expected of all doctors, PAs and AAs working in the UK. We support students, doctors, PAs, AAs and employers to understand and meet these professional standards.

The standards are described in Good medical practice, which covers the fundamental aspects of a these roles. This includes working in partnership with patients and treating them with respect. Or making sure children's rights are respected and that good care is provided to people who are reaching the end of their lives.

We give guidance and advice on topics like confidentiality, professionalism and decision making. And we develop case scenarios and tools that help apply the principles in their practice.

Through a process called revalidation, we seek assurance that doctors, PAs and AAs continue to meet these professional standards throughout their careers.

Read more about Good medical practice and the professional standards we set.