The College in Scotland works closely in partnership with a
wide range of organisations in order to jointly progress ideas and
initiatives. These partnerships are an essential part of developing
robust health initiatives in Scotland.
Working with patients and public
One of the most important partnerships for the College and its
membership is with patients. The College in Scotland is committed
to working in partnership with the public where appropriate on
decision-making, policy setting and developing improved patient
care. The College is proud of its role in continually taking
forward initiatives to develop and ensure the best possible
doctor/patient relationship.
Working with government
The College in Scotland is actively working with the Parliament,
the Health Committee and individual MSPs on specific issues in
relation to the quality of general practice as well as providing
support and advice (as required) on ideas relating to education,
quality and standards.
In addition, the College in Scotland works with the Scottish
Executive in a number of forums. The College is actively taking
forward a number of initiatives in conjunction with the Executive
(and general practice) but links informally with individuals to
provide advice and support, when required.
Working with other primary care
organisations
RCGP Scotland values the opportunity of working with other
primary care organisations to develop the primary care agenda in
Scotland. This networking happens in a number of ways, most
formally through the Scottish Primary Care Partnership (SPCP),
which brings together eight primary care organisations (including
RCGP Scotland) on a regular basis to discuss issues of common
interest and joint developments.
Working with Scottish General Practitioners Committee
(SGPC)
The College in Scotland has a close working relationship with
the Scottish General Practitioners Committee (SGPC) as issues of
common interest can be taken forward most effectively together.
SGPC is a sub-committee of the British Medical Association (BMA)
tasked with looking after the terms and conditions of service of
general practitioners. The College will not usually get involved
directly in this area, although we have an interest in on-going
developments because of their impact on the environment in which
general practitioners provide care for their patients. The College
itself is more concerned with quality and standards of care, as
well as the personal and continuing development of general
practitioners. As such, there is great benefit in working most
effectively together.
Working with policy developers
RCGP Scotland has useful working relationships with a number
of organisations in taking forward health-related initiatives in
Scotland. In addition to the organisations outlined below, the
College interacts with Medical Directors of Primary Care Trusts and
Professors of General Practice.