NMC Puts Forward New Guidelines For Revalidation

By Rob Dixon

Legal experts have called on health bodies to ensure that clarity is provided regarding the regulations and guidelines that health professionals need to follow, following new proposals which could see nurses and midwives subject to checks every three years.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has put forward revalidation plans which would see the reviews introduced at the end of 2015, with feedback from patients, employers and others set to form the basis of the checks.

It is hoped the system would be similar to a new structure put in place, which means doctors are now subject to checks every five years.

Legal experts at Irwin Mitchell who advise medical professionals on regulatory matters said that the steps were a positive step towards ensuring patient safety, but added that it would be vital that care is taken to ensure those affected are able to continue to do their jobs to the best of their abilities.

Yogi Amin, National Head of Public Law at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Any steps taken to improve the quality of care that patients receive are of course welcome, but it must be remembered that there is extensive change taking place across the health sector.

“The concern is that the changes in compliance and regulation could create some confusion regarding the necessary guidelines and regulations that medical professionals need to follow. Proper guidance will be vital to ensure that the regulatory framework is robust and that nurses are able to ensure they meet all of the necessary criteria.

“It is also vital that steps are taken to ensure that the introduction of changes to revalidation do not become a burden on medical professionals or distract from their principal aim – to provide high quality care to patients.”

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