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Checks for all Doctors Moves a Step Closer

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH News Release issued by COI News Distribution Service. 8 October 2008

Revalidation for all doctors moved a step closer today as the Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson, confirmed the formation of the implementation team for England and £1 million of funding to support them.

The team comprises a panel of senior doctors who will provide professionally informed leadership, support and advice to the NHS, patients and doctors representatives for the design and delivery of the process, ensuring that all doctors meet the standards expected of them

Speaking on the appointment of the team, CMO Liam Donaldson said:

"The news that the NHS Revalidation Support Team is now in place marks an important step forward in the process of introducing revalidation for doctors in England. Their expertise and experience will be a critical source of advice and support in making that happen. This is good news for the profession and good news for patients."

Maurice Conlon, head of the new team said:

"We believe that, for revalidation to work, organisations must step outside their normal boundaries. We are proud of our track record of building consensus and are enthusiastic about working cooperatively for the benefit of patients and doctors alike."

Supporting today's announcement, President of the GMC, Professor Sir Graeme Catto said:

"We look forward to working with the new Revalidation Support Team on developing local processes and systems that will meet the needs of the medical profession, employers and patients and welcome their appointment."

The team will work closely with stakeholders and colleagues in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to ensure that professionals, employers and commissioners of NHS services are involved in the design and roll out of the new processes.

Notes to Editors

1. For media enquiries only contact the Department of Health press office on tel: 0207 210 5221.

2. Revalidation of doctors was announced on 23rd July. For further details visit:http://nds.coi.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp?ReleaseID=374895&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False

3. Members of the Revalidation Support Team are:
Lucy Warner is Chief Executive of the RST
Maurice Conlon is national Director of RST and a GP
Martin Shelley is the National Clinical Lead and a GP

RST Medical Directors
Jo Anthony is a Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Keith Judkins is a Consultant Anaesthetist
Nick Lyons is a GP