Background to iMAP
Unlike other branches of the medical
profession, membership of the RCGP a prerequisite to work as a
general practitioner in the UK. Interim Membership by Assessment of
performance (iMAP) provides an opportunity for all GPs to become
members of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP).
iMAP is designed to concentrate
on the performance of individual GPs and so should be accessible to
all GPs no matter their working pattern. GPs participating in iMAP
compile a portfolio documenting their day to day practice, and when
that is accepted by assessors, they are invited to attend an oral
assessment.
iMAP should be easily within the grasp
of any GP providing good standard care to their patients. Many GPs
will already be doing what is required by iMAP and they will simply
need to document this information in the format required. However,
some aspects of iMAP such as an audit might need to be carried out
specifically for iMAP. The average time taken to complete the
portfolio is 9 months.
iMAP is the standard of entry to
membership of the RCGP. It is appreciated that iMAP candidates have
undertaken their training some time ago and have a great deal of
practice clinical experience. iMAP does not expect perfection but
instead requires evidence of a reflective practitioner who is
willing to question and improve their performance.