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 itself
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 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.