SAP - GMC

Question 1

Describe the role and functions of the General Medical Council (GMC)

Answer 1

FUNCTION
-protect patients and improve medical education and practice in the UK by setting standards for students and doctors

ROLE

• decide which doctors are qualified to work in the UK
• oversee UK medical education and training
• set the standards doctors need to follow throughout their careers
• where necessary, take action to prevent a doctor from putting the safety of patients, or the public’s confidence in doctors, at risk.
• revalidation

Question 2

List the “Duties of a Doctor” as defined by the GMC

Answer 2

1. Knowledge upto date
   - recognize limits
   - provide a goodn standard of practice and care
   - patient care prioritized
2. safety - take action if patient safety dignity or comfort is being compromised
   - protect and promote the health of patients and the public
3. Communication, partnership and teamwork
   - Treat patients as individuals and respect their dignity
   - Treat patients politely and considerately
   - Respect patients’ right to confidentiality
4. Work in partnership with patients
   - Listen to, and respond to, their concerns and preferences
   - Give patients the information they want or need in a way they can understand
   - Respect patients’ right to reach decisions with you about their treatment and care
   - Support patients in caring for themselves to improve and maintain their health
5. Maintaining trust
   - Be honest and open and act with integrity
   - Never discriminate unfairly against patients or colleagues
   - Never abuse your patients’ trust in you or the public’s trust in the profession

Question 3

Describe the factors that influence fitness to practise as a doctor, and the implications for studying medicine

Answer 3

• Persistent inappropriate attitude or behaviour
• Failing to demonstrate good medical practice
• Drug or alcohol misuse
• Cheating or plagiarising
• Dishonesty or fraud, including dishonesty outside the professional role
• Aggressive, violent or threatening behaviour
• Any caution or conviction
• Health concerns and insight or management of these concerns

Question 4

Describe the role of fitness to practise in context of professionalism and General Medical Council policy

• How to achieve professionalism

Answer 4

1. develop healthy ways to cope with stress and challenges (resilience)
2. deal with doubt and uncertainty
3. apply ethical and moral reasoning to your work
4. work effectively in a team, including being able to give constructive and honest feedback
5. manage your own learning and development and be responsive to feedback
6. prioritise your time well and ensure a good work-life balance
7. promote patient safety and be able, where appropriate, to raise concerns
8. work collaboratively with patients and other professionals
9. deal with and mitigate against personal bias.