What is Revalidation? In Practice

Overview

The introduction of revalidation in the UK provides us with a unique opportunity to explore its implementation. ‘What is Revalidation? In Practice’ follows on from our What is Revalidation? In Policy’ work and is an 18-month primary research study that aims to understand and assess the impact of revalidation on clinicians and clinical practice.

What we’re doing

Using activity theory and discourse analysis, the research will focus on doctors from all healthcare settings and other stakeholders, for one year, to identify the practical consequences of revalidation and assesses the potential positive and negative impacts of implementation.

Why we’re doing it

If revalidation is to become a meaningful activity, it is vital that the strengths are built upon and the weaknesses and negatives are quickly addressed through policy changes. This requires the building of a robust evidence-base on revalidation. The research is designed to support clinician engagement in the geographical study area (Cornwall and the Scilly Isles) and the outputs will be well placed to directly impact future GMC policy on revalidation.

How we’re doing it

The research will be drawing on activity theory to explore, describe and understand revalidation, and its role as part of a wider clinical ‘system’, before employing discourse analysis to interpret dominant cultural narratives and competing practices as they interact and (re)shape the system. The collation and analysis of information is to be based on the views and experiences of around 40 participants, including appraisees, appraisers, Responsible Officers, and GMC representatives.

This research is being conducted by Dr Julian Archer at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry on behalf of the Health Foundation and is hosted on the Revalidation Research website. 

When will the findings be available?

Autumn 2013

For further information please contact:

Darshan Patel, Research and Development Manager