Table 2 A list of the 12 RCGP Curriculum Competencies with descriptions (assessment scale: insufficient evidence; needs further development; competent; and excellent)

1.

Communication and consultation skills

(This competency is about communication with patients, and the use of recognised consultation techniques)

2.

Practising holistically

(This competency is about the ability of the doctor to operate in physical, psychological, socio-economic and cultural dimensions, taking into account feelings as well as thoughts)

3.

Data gathering and interpretation

(This competency is about the gathering and use of data for clinical judgement, the choice of examination and investigations and their interpretation)

4.

Making a diagnosis/making decisions

(This competency is about a conscious, structured approach to decision-making)

5.

Clinical management

(This competency is about the recognition and management of common medical conditions in primary care)

6.

Managing medical complexity

(This competency is about aspects of care beyond managing straightforward problems, including the management of co-morbidity, uncertainty and risk, and the approach to health rather than just illness).

7.

Primary care administration and information management & technology

(This competency is about the appropriate use of primary care administration systems, effective record keeping and information technology for the benefit of patient care)

8.

Working with colleagues and in teams

(This competency is working effectively with other professionals to ensure patient care, including the sharing of information with colleagues)

9.

Community orientation

(This competency is about the management of the health and social care of the practice population and local community)

10.

Maintaining performance, learning and teaching

(This competency is about maintaining the performance and effective continuing professional development of oneself and others)

11.

Maintaining an ethical approach to practise

(This competency is about practising ethically with integrity and a respect for diversity)

12.

Fitness to practice

(This competency is about the doctor’s awareness of when his/her own performance, conduct or health, or that of others might put patients at risk and the action taken to protect patients)