What is appraisal and revalidation?

Revalidation is the process by which all licensed doctors must demonstrate to the General Medical Council (GMC) that they remain up-to-date and fit to practise and are continuing to meet the requirements set out in the Good Medical Practice Framework. This is an essential process to maintain excellent standards of patient safety and care, both within pathology and healthcare more generally.  

Doctors are evaluated on their performance through annual appraisal. This information is assessed either by a responsible officer (RO) − an experienced senior doctor at the appraisees’ designated body − or a suitable person − a doctor appointed by the GMC who can take RO responsibility for doctors without a connection to a designated body. 

Doctors are expected to provide a portfolio of supporting information at their appraisal, evidencing their continuing professional development and fitness to practise. Based on these appraisals, the RO or suitable person will make a revalidation recommendation to the GMC, usually every 5 years. 

How does the College support members in this area? 

Supporting safe practice in pathology is one of the College’s key priorities. As part of this work, we are committed to supporting members through their appraisal and revalidation. To do this, we provide: 

• CPD support: the College runs a bespoke CPD portfolio for College members, and provides personalised support to help members enhance their professional development 

• guidance: the College provides information and signposting for members on common queries around revalidation, returning to practice, remediation, and the use of titles, qualifications and honours. This is in line with the updated General Medical Council (GMC) guidance for doctors. 

Please see the pages below for further information.