Locum doctor appraisal: a step-by-step guide

Locum doctors still need an annual appraisal for revalidation, but working across several placements makes the paperwork harder to keep together. This guide takes you through it in order.

Use the GMC’s connection tool to see whether you have a designated body or suitable person. This decides how your appraisal is arranged. Locums vary: some are connected to a designated body through the organisations they work for, such as NHS Locums or a locum agency, and some have no connection.

• If you have a responsible officer (RO), your appraisal is normally arranged through your designated body. Ask your RO or their appraisal team how to book, and whether an independent appraisal is acceptable. See independent medical appraisal.
• If you have no designated body or suitable person, you arrange your own annual appraisal. See REV12 form explained.

You need the six types of supporting information, from all your work across the year:

• continuing professional development;
• quality improvement activity;
• significant events;
• feedback from patients;
• feedback from colleagues;
• complaints and compliments.

Keep a single running record as you move between placements, rather than trying to reconstruct it later. Our revalidation checklist lists each item.

Colleague and patient feedback often take longest for locums, who may leave a placement before feedback is complete. Start it early. Our guides cover MSF for locum doctors and how many responses you need.

Your appraisal covers all your UK work, not just your current post. List each placement, setting and role during the appraisal year, including private or other work. See scope of practice, probity and health statements.

Book in good time before your revalidation date. Short-notice slots (within 48 hours) are available at £700, compared with £550 for a standard appraisal, so booking early saves money. See the fees page, and read how online appraisals work.

At the appraisal you discuss your supporting information and reflect on it, then agree a personal development plan (PDP) for the coming year.

If you have an RO, your designated body handles the outputs. If you have none, your appraiser completes the REV12 form, and you send it with your annual return when the GMC asks.