The ICGP Professional Competence Scheme (PCS) recognises the diversity of GP profiles among its enrolees. GPs work either full time or part time, in rural or urban practices, in single-handed practices or in practices with up to 10 GPs. Many GPs works as locums or in out of hours cooperatives. In terms of the patient profiles to whom they provide care, these can be a mix of public (GMS list) or private. Several GPs are retired and still on the Medical Council register and others are temporarily on leave from practice for example, due to maternity leave, illness, bereavement. Also among our GPs there are those returning from working in General Practice abroad and others who are arriving to work in General Practice in Ireland for the first time.
In addition, many GPs carry out roles as CME Tutors, GP Trainers, Faculty representatives or other leadership roles such as directors of specialisms or national leads for chronic diseases. The ICGP PCS provides supports to help all of these GPs to meet their requirements.
Enable and support General Practitioners in their lifelong learning through professional competence within a framework of safe and effective patient and doctor care that addresses the ongoing needs of a 21st century healthcare system
To support General Practitioners in their personal and professional growth within their scope of practice by providing Continuing Professional Development that includes knowledge, skills, personal learning, reflective practice and quality improvement
The Professional Competence Scheme (PCS) Committee nominates the Chair of the Committee based on skills, experience and interest in promoting GP professional engagement with PCS. The Board of ICGP approves the nomination in line with College policy for the appointment of all ICGP Committee chairs. The term for committee chairs is three years with potential for reappointment as chair for one further term of office.
The PCS Committee oversees the ICGP PCS and reports to the Quality, Safety and Standards (QSS) Committee. The QSS Committee provides strategic direction and leadership to ensure that standards and quality measures for General Practitioners and their patients are appropriate and implemented effectively. The QSS Committee reports to the ICGP Board, which meets six to seven times per year.
The Board of ICGP is the primary decision making body in ICGP and is responsible and accountable for the delivery of ICGP's strategic objectives. The Board collectively directs ICGP affairs while meeting the interests of members and external stakeholders in compliance with all necessary legislation and regulation.
ICGP is accountable for PCS via arrangements with the Medical Council of Ireland.
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