The General Medical Council published an updated version of Good Medical Practice on 22 August 2023. This provides guidance on the professional standards all doctors in the UK, across all specialities, career stages and sectors are expected to abide by. Good Medical Practice will also be applicable to physician associates and anaesthesia associates once they come under regulation by the GMC.

This is the first update since 2013. It has a stronger focus on behaviours and values which aim to create a respectful, fair and supportive workplace.

The current version of Good Medical Practice will apply up until 30 January 2024, when the updated version will come into effect and apply to all doctors on the medical register.

The Purpose of Good Medical Practice

The standards are not a set of rules but provide a description of good practice doctors must apply with their judgement when caring for patients and working with colleagues.

How the Standards Relate to Fitness to Practise

As Good Medical Practice provides core guidance for all doctors with regards to professional standards, if a doctor is considered to have seriously departed from the standards, it can mean they pose a current and ongoing risk to the public.

The General Medical Council have a legal duty under the Medical Act 1983 to protect the public.

Public protection is three-fold, the GMC must act in a way that:

  • Protects, promotes and maintains the health, safety and wellbeing of the public;
  • Promotes and maintains public confidence in the profession;
  • And promotes and maintains proper professional standards and conduct for members of the profession.

Where concern is raised about a doctor, the GMC must assess whether they pose any such risk.

The Five Key Updates

Good Medical Practice 2024 will update the following five areas:

  • create respectful, fair and compassionate workplaces for colleagues and patients
  • promote patient-centred care
  • tackle discrimination
  • champion fair and inclusive leadership
  • support continuity of care and safe delegation.

New standards as to what constitutes sexual harassment have also been introduced.

It is essential doctors familiarise themselves with these changes. Visit the GMC website to view further information on Good Medical Practice 2024.

Healthcare Regulation Solicitors – Guildford and London

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About the Author

Darci Martin

Darci Martin

Trainee Solicitor