The Commission on Generalism
Overview
The Commission on Generalism is run by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) in partnership with the Health Foundation. The Commission will look at the contribution of medical generalism and the role of the generalist in today's healthcare system.
What we’re doing
The Commission has been set up to do the following:
- agree a definition for generalism
- discuss the rationale for, and the current status of, medical generalism
- analyse the effectiveness of generalist practice and any problems associated with it
- make recommendations for the future direction of the generalist role, including implications for workforce planning
- consider how clinical training for general practice (and some other specialities) can retain the key elements of generalism to that result in effective patient care and efficient use of resources
- consider the drivers for change, such as demography, science and technology, medical training, the economy, social trends and political factors.
Why we’re doing it
The RCGP believes that the time is right to undertake a review of the benefits of medical generalism.
As the demand for healthcare will increase over the next decades, due to increasing life expectancy and scientific and medical advances, it recognises an urgent need to understand the importance of the generalist in ensuring that health systems are cost effective and equitable.
How we’re doing it
The Commission will be hosted by the RCGP, in partnership with the Health Foundation, and will seek input from an advisory group with members from other medical royal colleges and clinical professional bodies.
It will:
- review the latest evidence base through a full literature review
- consult the RCGP membership to seek professional opinions
- run six national/regional events
- conduct three oral evidence sessions.
When will more information be available?
The commission will run for 12-15 months. An independent final report of the findings will be published in early 2012.
For more information, please contact Adrian Sieff, Assistant Director, Engaging Clinicians Team.
