GMC Wrestles For Regulatory Powers

The General Medical Council (GMC) that regulates all UK doctors welcomed a shake up in doctor regulation, though it had earlier objected some proposals put forward by Sir Liam Donaldson, a medical officer of England.

Officials say that GMC wants to retain adjudication powers in fitness to practice cases apart from the control of undergraduate training.

In his review, Sir Liam had suggested that adjudication to be handed to an independent body. He said that GMC has to be left to investigate on its complaints.

Sir Liam while commenting on the GMC's training sector, said: 'undergraduate medical education from GMC has to be moved to the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board'.

'MOT-style checks on doctors' abilities should be introduced – He added.

The proposals were welcomed by GMC but the officials felt that it may take some time for them to revalidate. GMC also agreed to change its membership policies of doctors.

GMC president, Sir Graeme Catto said: 'Modern medical regulation must put patient safety first, be fair to doctors and be both practicable and affordable and I believe our proposals meet those requirements.'

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Sir Graeme Catto added that GMC has specialized medical training programs to doctors to ensure quality and also have proven track records regarding fitness or practice cases.

However, the Government will decide how best to proceed with this issue following the submission of Sir Liam's proposals later this month.



Source-Medindia
SRI