- 3.1. Myth: I must document all my learning activities
- 3.2. Myth: I need to scan certificates to provide supporting information about my CPD
- 3.3. Myth: It is reasonable to spend a long time getting the supporting information together for my appraisal
- 3.4. Myth: I only need to provide all six types of GMC supporting information about my clinical role
- 3.5. Myth: All my supporting information has to apply to work in the NHS
- 3.6. Myth: Supporting information from work overseas cannot be included in my appraisal portfolio
- 3.7. Myth: Certificates of attendance are important proof of CPD
- NEW 3.8 Myth: Having a 'disagree' statement from my appraiser is always a bad thing
- NEW 3.9 Myth: I must get sign off statements from all parts of my scope of practice every year
3.1. Myth: I must document all my learning activities
You do not have to document all your learning activities. We recommend that you focus on the quality not quantity of your supporting information.
You should be selective about documenting your reflection on your most valuable and meaningful learning, over the course of the year. You do not need to record and reflect on every learning activity.
If you find it convenient and helpful to record significantly more than 50 CPD credits for your own benefit (to capture your learning) then that is your choice, but your appraiser will focus on the quality of your learning and reflection and challenge you to highlight what has been most important over the course of the appraisal period.
3.2. Myth: I need to scan certificates to provide supporting information about my CPD
The GMC has not set any requirements about exactly how CPD should be evidenced or recorded.
We recommend that you should follow the definition of one CPD credit equals one hour of learning activity demonstrated by a reflective note on lessons learned and any changes made.
Recording and demonstrating your CPD by scanning and storing certificates that only record time spent, without indicating what you learned, is not a good use of your time.
For appraisal and revalidation, you only need to include a reflective note on your learning and what difference it has made (or will make). You should keep a simple learning log in a way that is convenient to you so that you can capture your learning points and their implications for the quality of your care.
There are several useful apps available, for example the GMC CPD app. Some electronic platforms include learning diaries that can be accessed or emailed from your Smartphone or other devices. A document record, table or spreadsheet can work just as well.
There are some learning activities that are well documented by a certificate because the certificate is designed to help you capture your reflection on the learning at the time. You might want to scan certificates relating to training specifically required by your designated body or any organisations in which you work. This does not make them part of the GMC requirements for revalidation but it does allow you to collect and keep important documentation securely and demonstrate fitness for purpose to your employer.