How to choose a GMC appraiser

If you arrange your own appraisal, the person you choose matters. This guide lists what to check, based on the GMC’s requirements and on practical points that affect your experience.

If you have a responsible officer (RO), your appraisal is normally arranged through your designated body, and you should use the system provided unless your RO asks otherwise. Ask your RO before booking an independent appraiser. If you have no designated body or suitable person, you arrange your own, and the choice is yours.

For doctors without a connection, the GMC says the appraiser must be a licensed doctor who meets its criteria. These include:

• being connected to a designated body or an approved suitable person;
• having carried out at least five appraisals for that body in the 12 months before yours;
• having no conflict of interest with you; and
• being able to verify that your supporting information is fit for purpose.

Ask any appraiser how they meet these. You can check their registration and licence on the GMC’s medical register. See REV12 form explained, since the appraiser declares these points on the form.

• Experience. How long have they been appraising, and how many appraisals have they done?
• Your specialty. Appraisers don’t need to share your specialty, but they should understand your kind of work, such as locum, GP or private practice.
• Format. Is the meeting a video call, and how is the documentation completed?
• Availability. Are evening and weekend slots offered, and can they see you at short notice?
• Fees. What does the fee include, and are there extras? See what a medical appraisal costs.
• Forms. Will they complete the REV12 form if you need it, and at what cost?
• Acceptance. Will your RO, agency or employer accept the appraisal?

• Reluctance to explain how they meet the GMC’s criteria.
• Fees that aren’t stated up front.
• Promises that an appraisal is a formality or guaranteed.
• A telephone-only appraisal, which the GMC does not accept for doctors without a designated body.

I have been an appraiser since 2013 and have completed over 350 appraisals. I’m a locum consultant psychiatrist (GMC number 6098107). I am connected to a designated body through the NHS trust where I work, and I carry out at least five appraisals a year for that trust. I also carry out appraisals through my private work. Appraisals are held online by video. Fees are £550 standard and £700 short-notice.