The BMA has welcomed the new appraisal and revalidation processes which have been published by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AMRC).
The AMRC guidance describes a stream-lined medical appraisal process which would see appraisals carried out “considerately and effectively”.
The AMRC emphasises that the function of appraisal is to support doctors in their professional development and is designed to help doctors understand what they need to do to prepare for and participate in the appraisal.
The Academy says an appraisal should also offer a confidential professional discussion about the individual’s experience of the pandemic and provide a chance for them to reflect on their health and wellbeing as essential factors for high standards of professional practice.
“This is especially relevant for all doctors who have been personally impacted by COVID-19, through illness or bereavement, and doctors who are at additional risk from COVID-19 such as those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds or with other factors that increase risk such as pre-existing conditions, increasing age or pregnancy,” it said.
Welcoming the new process, Dr Mark Sanford-Wood, BMA GP committee deputy chair, said: “We’re encouraged by the significant simplification of the requirements and the reduction in paperwork, which allows both appraisers and appraisees to focus on treating patients rather than bureaucracy. This slimmed-down system is a step forward in empowering doctors to use their appraisal to reflect on their professional development, and forms part of a wider drive by the BMA to reduce bureaucracy.”
This article originally appeared on Univadis, part of the Medscape Professional Network.
