General Practitioners with Extended Roles

A GPwER is a GP who undertakes a role that is beyond the scope of GP training and the MRCGP. This role is in addition to their core general practice and requires further training. This framework does not preclude GPs from developing a range of interests within core general practice. 

RCGP guide to GP clinical extended roles

The RCGP guide to GP clinical extended roles has been developed by the RCGP. It's to help GPs demonstrate competence in extended scopes of clinical practice. It is relevant to all clinical specialisms. Employers and service commissioners are encouraged to refer to this document. Due to local service variation, GPs planning to deliver a service as a GPwER are advised to establish requirements with the relevant employer and service commissioner.

Extended role frameworks

In response to what our members are telling us, the College has begun working on a new approach to GPs with extended roles. It's designed to support our members looking to develop clinical interests in specific areas, including beyond CCT. The result will be a series of frameworks outlining the critical role GPs already play in the given area. They will also explore how GPs can develop their practice in that area, including in extended roles.

The following frameworks are now available:

We are currently exploring the following areas for framework development:

  • Population health and health inequalities
  • Sustainable health
  • Child and young persons' mental health
  • Diabetes, metabolic medicine and prevention of diabetes
  • Palliative care
  • Emergency medicine
  • Lifestyle medicine
  • Research in primary care

In addition to this, the RCGP recognises the following frameworks. These have either been created externally, or collaboratively with partner organisations:

Extended role accreditation

The RCGP’s position on extended role accreditation, and reaccreditation, is outlined in the RCGP guide to clinical extended roles. The RCGP does not accredit GPs with extended roles itself. However, we're open to working with external organisations where there is a demonstrable need for extended role accreditation.

The RCGP currently supports the British Association of Dermatologists to provide an accreditation programme for dermatology GPwERs. This is the only national accreditation scheme currently available. 

We advise that GPs seeking accreditation in an extended role speak to the relevant service commissioner and employer to understand local requirements.

RCGP mentoring 

If you are an RCGP member, you may wish to use our mentoring platform to connect with others with an interest or experience in your chosen extended role area.

Useful links

Contact us

If you have questions about GP extended roles, please contact professionalstandards@rcgp.org.uk