The document discusses revalidation in the Australian context, noting that mandatory continuing professional development (CPD) has been in place since 2010 but varies by field of practice. It outlines the Medical Board of Australia's progress, including commissioning research on options and community expectations and establishing expert advisory groups. Pilot models of revalidation will be tested from 2016-2017 before potential adoption and implementation in 2017-2018. Key challenges for Australia include that legislation currently mandates CPD not revalidation, determining the purpose of revalidation, and deciding on universal or risk-based approaches while considering feasibility, acceptability and cost.

1. Revalidation in the Australian context
Dr Joanna Flynn
Chair, Medical Board of Australia
IAMRA 2015 Revalidation Symposium
Montreal

2. Progress to date
• Mandatory CPD since 2010 – varies by field of practice
• Commenced discussion about revalidation with
profession and key stakeholders late 2012
• Commissioned CAMERA, Plymouth University UK to
provide options and evidence – report mid 2015
• Commissioning research re community expectations
• Established expert advisory group to:
– provide technical expert advice and recommend models
that can be evaluated for effectiveness, feasibility and
acceptability
• Established consultative committee of key stakeholders
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3. Published timelines
• Expert Advisory Group report by June 2016
• Pilot models and evaluate for effectiveness,
feasibility and acceptability in 2016-17
• Review outcomes and move to adoption and
implementation 2017-18
• Revalidation report and other information is
published on the Board's website
www.medicalboard.gov.au/registration/revalidation
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4. Challenges in the Australian context
• Our legislation mandates CPD, not revalidation
• Need to be clear about our purpose – one or both
– improving everyone
– identifying poor performers
• Need to decide if we have universal or risk based
approach
• Feasibility, acceptability and cost
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