Good Medical Practice

Before your interview it is a good idea to read the Good Medical Practice written by the GMC and learn a few quotes (or just read our summary of it)! Below we have highlighted the most important quotes which can help in scenario based questions.

Good doctors…

1. “Make the care of their patients their primary concern, they keep their knowledge and skills up-to-date, establish and maintain good relationships with patients and colleagues, are honest and trustworthy, and act with integrity and within the law.”

15a. “Adequately assess the patient's condition, taking account of their history (including the symptoms and psychological, spiritual, social and cultural factors) their views and values.”

16c. “Take all possible steps to alleviate pain and distress, whether or not a cure may be possible.”

26. “You must offer help if emergencies arise in a clinical setting or in the community.”

43. “… you must put patient safety first at all times.”

56. “You must give priority to patients on the basis of clinical need…”

57. “You must not refuse or delay treatment because you believe a patient actions or lifestyle has contributed to their condition.”

“You are personally accountable for your professional practice and must always be prepared to justify your decisions and actions.”

“You must explain to a patient if you have a conscientious objection to a particular procedure. You must tell them of their right to see another doctor and make sure they have enough information to exercise that right.”

“You must not imply or express disapproval of a patient’s lifestyle, choices or beliefs.”

The key takeaway from Good Medical Practice is that clinical need is only factor which decides the order a doctor treats patients. The most ill patients must be treated first.