Professor Mayur Lakhani, Chairman of the RCGP,
said:
“We are pleased the report acknowledges that
the majority of doctors provide good quality care for patients and
emphasises the need for clearer standards of professional practice.
The College has always advocated the need for stronger patient and
public involvement in healthcare - a major theme of the report.
“This is the first, proper review of
medical regulation for over 30 years. The report contains 44 wide
ranging and significant recommendations and we will be consulting
with our Members and Fellows across the UK over the next three
months in order for RCGP Council to give a considered and
structured response to the proposals - particularly those relating
to revalidation and the structure and function of the GMC.
“We understand the concern that doctors will
have with regards to workload. The emphasis must be on support,
education and professional development and we will be working
closely with our colleagues on the General Practitioners Committee
(GPC) to ensure a workable and supportive programme to assist all
GPs in securing re-licensure and re-certification. “
Ailsa Donnelly, Chair of the RCGP Patient
Partnership Group, said: “I am delighted to see such a strong
emphasis on patient and public involvement. It is crucial that
patients can trust their doctors to deliver consistent quality and
safe standards of care at all times. These proposals – using
the expertise of medical Royal Colleges - are a step in the right
direction.”
Ends.
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