Understanding the experience of focusing on wellbeing in appraisals

This research aims to help us understand how a recent change in emphasis regarding doctors' appraisals has been experienced by key parties involved in the appraisal process, including by doctors themselves. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, medical appraisals were paused by the majority of designated bodies in the UK on the advice of the relevant departments of health. The General Medical Council put back the dates for revalidation for over 50,000 doctors by 12 months. As appraisals restart, guidance has been given by Appraisal Leads in the 4 Countries and the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges to encourage an increased emphasis on doctors' wellbeing in these. We are considering whether we should endorse this approach on a permanent basis through an update to our guidance on appraisals. This research will be designed to provide an evidence base to support this decision.