2007 CPD Record Card published
6 February 2007
Practising members of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) should receive their 2007 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Record Card during early February.
We require all practising veterinary surgeons in the UK to conduct a minimum of 105 hours of CPD every three years, which averages at 35 hours a year, regardless of whether they are in full- or part-time employment.
CPD is an important factor in the maintenance of competence and, furthermore, is one of the criteria set by the Practice Standards Scheme, our voluntary practice accreditation programme.
The guidance notes have been updated and expanded this year to assist veterinary surgeons when filling in their Record Cards. For example, it is now clearer which columns to use when recording different CPD activities. Members are urged to take a few minutes to read through these before beginning to complete their cards.
In order to get the most out of CPD, we recommend that veterinary surgeons discuss and plan their CPD needs at the start of the year, perhaps in conjunction with an appraisal with a mentor or another colleague.
CPD does not simply mean going on expensive external courses - contrary to popular belief!
There are many activities that can be undertaken in order to maintain and develop competence to practise, such as distance learning, seeing practice, mentoring and joining study groups. Attending courses, or studying for a university or RCVS postgraduate qualification, can play a useful part in achieving CPD targets but they are not appropriate for everyone.
Participating in the Professional Development Phase (PDP), the new online database that helps graduates record and consolidate their first year of clinical experience, is the easiest way for newly-qualified veterinary surgeons to record their CPD.
The PDP is compulsory for all those graduating from 2007 onwards. You can read more about PDP and how it can benefit both employer and graduate.
If you are a practising member and have not received your 2007 Record Card by the middle of February, or have a query concerning CPD, please email [email protected]. Alternatively, download a copy of the Record Card.