The Royal College of GPs (RCGP) is launching a leaflet for doctors seeking information about the upcoming revalidation scheme.
RCGP officials say the booklet will show the importance of patients in making the initiative effective, encouraging them to report on the quality of care, to reveal when things go wrong and to respond when asked for their opinion.
The scheme, to be launched in 2011, will see all doctors assessed for competency, awareness of the latest medical techniques and fitness to practise.
RCGP spokesman Anthony Chuter said: “Revalidation is about ensuring the highest standards of care are maintained by doctors in the UK, which is something we support because all patients need and deserve to have confidence in our doctors.”
RCGP chairman Professor Steve Field (pictured) added: “Patients are at the heart of everything GPs strive for in their professional lives, and the College is committed to engaging with patients as part of revalidation.
“Patients have a unique perspective on the performance of their GP and that information will be extremely important in the assessment of individual doctors.”
The leaflet will be released this week.
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