Good Medical Practice Update 2024 vs Appraisal

Key Changes in the 2024 GMP Update

The 2024 revision of GMP introduces several critical changes that influence how doctors engage with patients, colleagues, and professional responsibilities. Some of the key updates include:

• Professionalism and Patient Safety: Stronger emphasis on fostering a just and supportive workplace culture, promoting psychological safety, and challenging discriminatory behaviour.

• Speaking Up and Raising Concerns: Reinforcement of doctors’ duty to raise concerns about patient safety and workplace culture without fear of retaliation.

• Use of Social Media: Clearer guidelines on maintaining professional integrity when engaging in online platforms.

• Collegiality and Leadership: A renewed focus on teamwork, leadership, and respectful interactions with colleagues to ensure a collaborative and effective healthcare environment.

• Health and Well-being: Doctors are reminded of their responsibility to seek support when experiencing difficulties that might affect their practice.

How the 2024 GMP Update Affects Medical Appraisal

Medical appraisals remain a crucial part of revalidation, ensuring doctors reflect on their practice and align with GMC standards. The 2024 GMP update brings several implications for appraisals:

• Reflecting on Professionalism: Appraisees should consider how they demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and inclusivity in their practice. Evidence of maintaining a respectful and safe workplace will be increasingly important.

• Commitment to Patient Safety: Doctors may need to discuss instances where they have raised concerns or contributed to a culture of openness and learning within their organisation.

• Social Media Conduct: If doctors engage in professional discourse online, appraisers may expect reflection on maintaining appropriate boundaries and upholding GMC guidelines.

• Well-being and Resilience: Given the new emphasis on doctors’ health and well-being, appraisees should reflect on how they manage stress and seek support when needed.

Preparing for Your Appraisal Under the New GMP Guidance

To align with the updated GMP standards, doctors can take proactive steps in preparing for their appraisals:

1. Review the 2024 GMP Document: Ensure familiarity with the new expectations and consider how they apply to your practice.

2. Reflect on Key Themes: Identify specific examples that demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and patient safety.

3. Gather Supporting Evidence: Document instances where you have upheld ethical and professional standards in challenging situations.

4. Consider Personal Well-being: Be prepared to discuss strategies you use to maintain your own well-being and any support systems in place.

Conclusion

The 2024 update to Good Medical Practice underscores the GMC’s commitment to fostering a supportive, safe, and inclusive healthcare environment. For appraisals, these changes mean a stronger focus on professionalism, patient safety, and well-being. By engaging with the updated guidance and reflecting on its application in their own practice, doctors can ensure they meet GMC expectations while continuing to provide high-quality care.

For more detailed information on the 2024 GMP update, visit the GMC website or speak to us about how these changes impact your annual review.