This article reflects the conversations in the breakout group on this topic at the Recently Appointed Consultants symposium on Friday 13 March 2015.
Advice
Revalidation can feel like a minefield. To ensure that there aren’t any problems your appraisers require a full picture of your practice through the submission of evidence and records.
Appraisal is the cornerstone of the evidence required for revalidation, but it is not the only requirement. However ensure your appraisals are up to date and that you have been engaging with appraisal annually. In addition obtain and record regular feedback from patients and colleagues, including any complaints under your name as the lead clinician. Present all evidence and complaints with documentation before appraisal.
It is important to declare convictions, even minor traffic offences and any received gifts, sponsorship or any other conflicts of interest e.g. research funding, sponsorship.
Supply evidence of the breadth and extent of practice including NHS and private practice including examples to give a feel for casemix. Note any prolonged absences from practice and account for these. However do not see these as something to excused - can learn from time away from practice. If you require help with dates for your records then you can consult medical staffing for further information.
Keep to your appraisal timetable and avoid slippage as delays can affect revalidation itself. Information should be gathered from throughout the five years or so covered. If you keep up to date with records, appraisals and recording feedback then when revalidation is required, it should feel like the all hard work is taken out of the process and it truly should be pain-free.
Breakout group leader: Dr Alastair Todd, Consultant Radiologist, Raigmore Hospital
Reviewed: December 2019 and updated May 2020