The GMC is urging doctors to let them know whether they require a licence to practice prior to the 14 August deadline.
It comes amid accusations that doctors haven’t been sufficiently informed about the new regulatory system.
Under the new rules, doctors will need a licence to practise and be registered with the GMC in order to be able to treat patients. Doctors are supposed to let the GMC know within the next month.
Only a minority of doctors, who do not treat patients, such as some academics and researchers, will not need a licence.
But some doctors are still unaware that they have to let the GMC know that they want a licence. It’s estimated that nearly half of doctors are yet to register their preference.
One hospital doctor, who wished to remain nameless, told Hospital Dr: “I haven’t registered whether I want a licence to practise yet. I didn’t know what one was until earlier this week when a colleague mentioned it and I looked blankly at him. Lots of people don’t.
“Maybe I have been mailed stuff about it but nothing has jumped out at me. I often don’t get time to go through it.”
GMC chair Professor Peter Rubin said he had opted for a licence so he could continue running a weekly blood pressure clinic in Nottingham.
He said: “We’ve made it as easy as possible for doctors to let us know their decision. If they are not sure they should visit the GMC’s website and click on Licensing help which will answer any questions they may have.”
From 16 November and doctor wishing to practise medicine in the UK will, by law, need to both hold registration and a licence to practise. The GMC will be writing to all doctors at that stage to confirm their status.
Stephen Campion, chief executive of HCSA, commented: “Communications are never perfect; and neither often is the response, or lack of it. But in something as critical as being licensed with the GMC, whether one likes it or not, my bet is that after the closing date of 14 August this year there will be some doctors in limbo - or worse.
“Worse, because unless properly signed up with the GMC employment, practicing privileges and livelihoods are at stake. So if doctors have yet to respond to the GMC now is the time to do so.”
Meanwhile, the GMC has appointed Niall Dickson as its new chief executive. He will take up his post in January next year. He joins the GMC from The King’s Fund, where he has been chief executive since 2004. Prior to that, he was the BBC’s social affairs editor.
Rubin said: “The GMC is leading a major programme of regulatory change for doctors – including the introduction of revalidation. This is a challenging time and Niall Dickson is ideal for the job. He brings a wide understanding of the complex issues involved in delivering top quality healthcare in the UK.
“As a former broadcaster, he also has a strong record in communications, which will be vital in helping us to engage with doctors, patients and the public about the changes which are coming.”
Tags: GMC, Licence to practise
