Revalidation

Revalidation is a new process of regulation for all doctors who practice medicine in the UK. Revalidation was outlined initially in the White Paper:Trust, Assurance and Safety. Doctors must show that they are up to date and fit to practise.

What is revalidation?

Revalidation is the process by which doctors will have to demonstrate to the General Medical Council (GMC) that they are up to date and fit to practise and that they are complying with the relevant professional standards.

Revalidation will now have one set of processes encompassing generic standards and specialty specific standards (this was formerly split into two elements of relicensing and recertification but is now one process following the GMC consultation on revalidation in early 2010). 

Who does revalidation affect?

All doctors with a licence to practise on the GMC register, including those in specialist training and those on the specialist register.

Timeframes

• The start of revalidation processes is expected to be from late 2012, following extensive piloting

• Revalidation recommendations will occur every 5 years

• Appointment of local Responsible Officers is expected to be complete by November 2010 or shortly after

What should doctors do now?

Initial suggestions about preparing for revalidation can be found in the 'What can a doctor do to prepare?' section. A Key Facts leaflet on revalidation is also available  - click on the image below to view in full screen:  

The College's latest revalidation overview.pdf (11 pages, 149 KB)and revised supporting information guidance.pdf (12 pages, 83 KB), both updated in August 2011, are also available for those needing more detailed information about their requirements.

What is the College doing?

The College is working with other Colleges and Faculties and the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges to develop processes and guidance for revalidation. Specific College activities can be found in Updates and RCPCH approach.

Information, feedback and questions

Further information is available in the rest of the Revalidation section. You can also email the revalidation team with enquiries and to request a presentation.