How Locum Doctors Can Have Successful Revalidation?

Posted by David Bradley on October 19th, 2016

The locums are vital for operations of the NHS. They offer a certain flexibility level in medical staffing which is otherwise not possible to achieve through present contractual arrangements or by staff numbering.

The medical locums usually come to the UK from abroad seeking work. But their placements are generally short termed and their work is often solitary or they are placed in night shifts. As a result of this, these locum doctors are unable to develop a profound relationship with colleagues, are less supervised and also have low access to the clinical governance activities. Therefore, most of these doctors are not properly familiar with the requirements of GMC appraisal and revalidation system in the UK.

The locum doctors coming from abroad also undergo a regulatory licensing system that is based on their evaluation, performance and competencies in their respective countries however the system of appraisal and revalidation in the UK is universal and unique. It prepares doctors to provide structured evidence related to their work quality, competence and probity along with their learning as well as improvement in their medical practice in order to justify retaining their license to practice.

These are the doctors without a responsible officer. They do not have a specifically designated body, therefore, locum doctors do not have a supervisor to look over their activities, manage and arrange appraisal meetings like the full time regular clinical practitioners.

The evidence provided by the locum doctors should be independently verifiable and is checkable by the responsible officer. It means that the certificates of the Royal College Continuing Professional Development (CPD) along with reflection form good evidence because they evidently show the learning value. This also makes it easy for the responsible officer investigates what the doctor has attended. The Self-awarded points of continuing professional development by the doctors are difficult to assess and verify. Although they are acceptable, they should be limited in number. The events or conferences that took place abroad needs particular evidence but they have low value and are not verifiable.

The locum doctors need to undergo the appraisal cycle but they have the option to attend a minimum of two appraisals. However, if they provide perfect and sufficient evidence and supporting information along with reflection, CPD and Professional development plan (PDP) which is as good as 4 or 5 appraisals then they may be exempted from appraisal meetings. But they are required to provide proper explanation and evidence of their absence from the annual appraisal meetings.

The doctors without responsible officer can directly contact GMC and follow the provided guidelines for the collection and submission of their supporting information for appraisal and revalidation.

There is a no minimum requirement of working time in the UK each year for revalidation but all the practising doctors are required to attain the standards specified. If the doctor remains successful in providing outstanding evidence and portfolio of appraisals and reflection having a majority of evidence taken from the UK, it is possible for him/ her to undergo revalidation.