CPD Credits System
Between November 2008 and
May 2009, the RCGP underook a pilot of a CPD Credits System based
on Impact and Challenge. Based on the feedback from this pilot and
further consultation, the CPD Credits framework has been
simplified by introducing a Time-based Credit, in place
of the Challenge factor, multiplied by the Impact of the learning
activity on an individual GP or their practise.
Unlike other Medical Royal Collages, the new Credits System
allows GPs to record their CPD to achieve credits
based not only on the time spent on an activity,
but also to earn additional credits for the impact it
has on their practice. Credits are self-assessed and verified
during the appraisal process.
Each recorded hour spent on a CPD activity, including time spent
on planning and reflection, counts as a credit. Additional credits
can then be collected by demonstrating the Impact of the
learning. Account should be taken of the requirement for GPs to
ensure that they use their CPD to keep up to date in all areas of
their work and undertake relevant learning activities.
Definition of a Credit
Under the new framework, a CPD Credit is based on an hour of
learning activity, recorded in such a way that it demonstrates
the learning achieved relevant to the working situation of the
GP.
Impact
Demonstration of Impact will allow GPs to multiply the credits
claimed for an activity (hours) by a factor of two. Impact relates
to:
- Impact on patients (a change in practice, implementing a new
clinical guideline, initiating a new drug for the first time
etc)
- Impact on the individual (personal development, such as
development of a new skill or further development of an exising
skill)
- Impact on service (developing and implementing a new
service, becoming a training practice, teaching colleagues
etc)
- Impact on others (teaching, training, NHS locally or
Nationally)
The new CPD Credits system encourages and rewards reflection on
the learning activity and its integration into a GPs practice.
RCGP Guide to the Credit-Based System for CPD
In January 2010, the RCGP released version 2 of the
RCGP Guide to the Credit-Based System for CPD
which has been refined (guidance on how many credits should be
claimed for different learning activities has been simplified).
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