What is appraisal?

• Appraisal is a formative, systematic and regular review of past achievements with constructive planning of future progress
• It is a continual process and part of a learning culture
• Participation in appraisal should be a positive and supportive process

Who is it for?

• Appraisal is being introduced for all GPs in Wales

When is it being introduced?

• From April 2003
• All GPs in Wales should have completed at least one appraisal by the end of March 2004

How will it be managed?

• GP appraisal in Wales is being managed centrally by the Department of Postgraduate Education for General Practice at the University of Wales College of Medicine (UWCM)
• A GP Appraisal and CPD Unit has been established and a GP Appraisal Advisor has been identified
• Appraisal Co-ordinators have been appointed to oversee appraisal in different regions

Who will do the appraisals?

• Peer appraisers will be carried out by practising GPs
• All appraisers will be recruited and trained by the Department
• Appraisers will reflect a cross-section of GPs in Wales
• GPs will be able to select their preferred appraiser from a directory on the Departmental website

Is appraisal linked with revalidation?

• Appraisal and revalidation are distinct but complementary
• Both appraisal and revalidation are based around the core responsibilities identified by the GMC in Good Medical Practice
• It is anticipated that GPs should not have to collect any evidence for revalidation over and above that required for appraisal