2017 RANZCP Continuing Professional Development Program: Implementation and Progression

Background: The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) is implementing a redeveloped continuing professional development (CPD) program in 2017. The redeveloped program incorporates key clinically relevant CPD elements such as peer review and reflection on practice, quality improvement, audit or outcomes measurement of practice and self-directed learning. The program strengthens essential elements identified in the Medical Board of Australias (MBAs) plan for revalidation. Objectives: To update participants on the progress and implementation of the CPD program. This symposium will utilize a panel discussion approach to provide information and seek feedback. The presentation will provide participants with examples of how to meet the requirements of the program, the RANZCP online CPD system and its associated benefits. Methods: Literature review, benchmarking of other medical CPD programs, review of revalidation requirements and overview of the implementation of the 2017 CPD program. Findings: This symposium aims to inform fellows of the structure and benefits of the new program as well as discussing practical examples about how participants can meet their CPD program requirements. The discussion will be informed in part by the changes to the CPD program and any identified changes that have been reflected as part of the MBAs plan for revalidation. The panel will discuss changes to the program and how the changes have been received following their implementation, particularly for those related to practice improvement and how the changes can be appropriately completed. Conclusions: An important role of the RANZCP is to ensure that a modern CPD program for participants is available, user friendly and professionally relevant with the appropriate systems to support it. The program aims to provide a framework for maintaining competence as well as improving the clinical skills and practice of psychiatrists.