Medical appraisal

The main focus of the appraisal process is to support the professional and personal development of the doctor.

To achieve this, appraisal must be a safe and confidential space for a doctor to review their achievements, challenges and aspirations. By participating in appraisal doctors demonstrate the key professional behaviour of learning from reflection. This reflection needs to encompass the entire scope of their work – be it in direct clinical service, in education and training, in research, in leadership or in what is broadly termed ‘health policy’.

Medical Appraisal Guide (MAG) 2022 – Fit for the future

The Medical Appraisal Guide 2022 (MAG 2022) launched on 8 June 2022. It replaces the ‘Appraisal 2020’ process created for the flexible restart of appraisals during COVID-19.

It builds on the successes of Appraisal 2020, but no longer focuses on the pandemic – instead asking what the impact of the period since the last appraisal has been. We have learned from what doctors told us they valued – a return to a more formative and developmental discussion, with less documentary requirements, and an opportunity to talk about health and wellbeing if they wish.

We have worked hard to ensure that the Medical Appraisal Guide 2022 describes proportionate appraisal processes that are appropriate for all doctors in all sectors and geographies. The core materials are available on our webpage.

The GMC have confirmed that these appraisals are consistent with existing GMC guidance for appraisal and revalidation.