Royal College of Surgeons comment on medical associate professions regulation consultation

The Department of Health has today announced that it has launched a consultation on the regulation of Medical Associate Professions (MAPs). The four roles that make up this group are: Physician Associates (PA), Physicians’ Assistants (Anaesthesia) (PA(A)), Surgical Care Practitioners (SCP) and Advanced Critical Care Practitioners (ACCP).

Responding to news of the consultation , Mr Ian Eardley, a consultant urological surgeon and Vice President of the Royal College of Surgeons, said:
 
“The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) supports the integration of roles such as physician associates and surgical care practitioners into both surgical and medical teams. With appropriate training and support they improve the quality of care patients receive and allow consultant surgeons and doctors in training more time to operate.
 
“It is crucial we address the shortage of doctors trained to work in the NHS but we should also embrace innovative ways of working which improve patient care. Everyone is in agreement that in order for the NHS and patients to benefit fully, it is vital all of these roles, including physician associates and surgical care practitioners, are regulated. It is remarkable they have remained unregulated thus far.
 
“We are concerned that no legislative timetable for changes has been spelt out today. We urge regulation to be taken forward as soon as possible.”

Notes to editors

The Royal College of Surgeons of England is a professional membership organisation and registered charity, which exists to advance surgical standards and improve patient care.

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