How will revalidation work for Specialty Doctors and Associate Specialists?
Speciality Doctors and Associate Specialists will revalidate against their individual job plans and will need to revalidate through the same process as Consultants, as will all non-training grade doctors.
I work part-time in O & G. Can I participate in proportionate CPD?
Part-time doctors are required to revalidate and to fulfil the same CPD requirements as full time doctors. Your CPD activities should be linked to your job plan and discussed at your appraisal.
I am a GP but also work as a Speciality doctor in gynaecology for colposcopy. Do I have to do the RCOG CPD programme?
You should participate in the CPD programme which most reflects your main post. In addition, you should be able to demonstrate that you are following standards set for gynaecologists in the gynaecology speciality in which you also practice, ie colposcopy. Appropriate evidence of this can be taken to your appraisal.
I am a Speciality Doctor in O & G but I am not a member of the RCOG. I am aware that I need to collect evidence of CPD. Can I use the RCOG CPD programme?
Yes. You should contact the RCOG CPD office and register and subscribe as a CPD Associate. You can then take part in the full programme and you will receive The Obstetrician and Gynaecologist journal, which provides articles suitable for knowledge based questions for CPD.
I would like to develop a special interest in Menopause and hopefully start a clinic in our hospital. How do I go about this and could I be the lead for this clinic, as an Associate Specialist?
If within your department it is felt to be an appropriate development, you can take part in a RCOG ATSM, of which Menopause is an option. You should contact the ATSM office of the RCOG and register. You will be advised to attend an appropriate theoretical course and find a trainer for practical sessions. Once you have the completed the module, in conjunction with the wishes of your department, there is no reason why you could not be the lead clinician.
I would like to become involved with college activities. Are there any RCOG committees that Speciality doctors could apply for?
The RCOG committee structure is being revised and committees will be identified which require Speciality doctor representation. Meanwhile, if vacancies are occurring, there is no reason why a Speciality doctor can’t apply. Applicants will be chosen according to their credentials, not their job title.