What makes a good doctor?

HEALTH professionals are being asked "what makes a good doctor" as part of a major review by the General Medical Council.

The GMC are looking to update their core guidance for doctors, Good Medical Practice, which sets out the principles and values that all UK doctors must follow. They have posted an online questionnaire which asks about issues such as whether the current guidance gives enough weight to patients’ needs and rights and if it could be made more relevant for doctors in training and doctors in non-clinical roles.

The GMC have described the review as "the start of a wide-ranging conversation about what is good medical practice today." They are seeking the views of patients, the public and doctors through a range of online activities and face-to-face events throughout the UK.

Niall Dickson, GMC Chief Executive, said: "Good Medical Practice has a vital role to play in keeping patients safe and improving professional standards.

“The current edition has been used by countries all over the world which look to the UK as a leader in ethical principles for doctors. But we do need to make sure our guidance is up-to-date and reflects changes in the way healthcare is delivered. That is why we are anxious to hear the views of patients, doctors and others working in healthcare about how doctors should be practising today."

A major public consultation on the new draft guidance will run from October 2011 to January 2012. To take part in the review of Good Medical Practice visit www.gmc-uk.org/gmp2012. You can also sign up for email updates at: gmp2012@gmc-uk.org.