16.04.13
CPD must not be in isolation – GMC
Employers must do more to support doctors in professional development, new research from the General Medical Council (GMC) suggests.
A study based on 60 interviews indicated that there is a lack of support for locums, doctors outside training grades and some doctors employed in the independent sector. Many doctors understand the importance of CPD, but do not know how to do it and struggle to find the time to reflect on their learning.
The GMC report states that CPD is most effective when there is a direct link with doctor’s personal development plans. Revalidation can make CPD more effective over time, and development should be linked to an organisation’s priorities, not just individual doctors’ professional goals.
CPD should not be undertaken in isolation, and doctors need sufficient time to complete development, the report recommends. The GMC also calls for public and patient involvement in CPD, and will work with the AoMRC to improve the support and advice available to organisations and doctors.
Professor Sir Peter Rubin, chair of the GMC, said: “As doctors we pride ourselves on keeping our professional skills and knowledge up to date so that we continue to provide the best possible care to patients.
“Revalidation ensures that all doctors take part in professional development but we need to have the time and space to undertake CPD, then be enabled to reflect on what we have learned and put it into our day to day practice. This research will help the GMC provide what support and guidance it can to doctors so they make the most of their professional development opportunities.”
Dean Royles, chief executive of the NHS Employers organisation, said: “There has been a lot of focus in the press on the training and education of the future NHS workforce, so it's great to see a report that highlights the importance of the continuing professional development of the existing workforce.
“For too long doctors have seen CPD as being self-determined so I really welcome recommendations that highlight that it should be integrated with appraisal, linked to personal development plans and, importantly, aligned with organisational objectives. Doctors’ time is precious and every hour spent on CPD must be directed in the best interests of patient care.”
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