The introduction of dedicated training events for medical students and junior doctors by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has had the result of increasing the total number of medical student and foundation doctor membership to over 1,000 for the very first time in the RCP’s history.
Since the medical student and foundation doctor membership categories were set up 2 years ago the numbers in this important category have steadily grown, with conferences, events and RCP benefits providing a real incentive for those at the start of their medical career to join the RCP.
In the 2012 membership engagement survey, career development was identified as a major reason for joining the RCP by junior doctors and medical students. As a result, the RCP has introduced a range of events, such as an RCP careers fair and tailored events such as ‘How to succeed in the specialties’, to cater for this growing part of its membership.
The most recent of these events, held in November, ‘How to succeed in the specialties’, provided unique access to consultants, specialists and information to help students and junior doctors to make the important decision in choosing the right specialty and the tools to thrive in future. With consultants and trainees from many different specialties, the event was very popular and well received by the delegates.
Professor Linda Luxon, RCP treasurer, said:
It is welcome news that those who are just starting out in their medical career see the additional benefits that being a member of the RCP can bring. The growth in only 2 years to over 1,000 members, shows that there is a clear demand for the support and information that the RCP can provide but also reminds the RCP that we always need to consider the varied needs of our entire membership.
It is extremely beneficial to have new voices, with different ideas and perspectives joining the RCP as the delivery of healthcare and the NHS meet the challenge of future changes.
For further information, please contact Morgan Evans, RCP communications and new media adviser, on 020 3075 1468 / 0779 508 8253, or email Morgan.Evans@rcplondon.ac.uk
About the Royal College of Physicians
The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) plays a leading role in the delivery of high quality patient care by setting standards of medical practice and promoting clinical excellence. We provide physicians in the United Kingdom and overseas with education, training and support throughout their careers. As an independent body representing over 29,000 fellows and members worldwide, we advise and work with government, the public, patients and other professions to improve health and healthcare.