NMC introduces new rules to improve its fitness to practise processes

Earlier this month, the Nursing and Midwifery Council introduced new rules governing fitness to practise allowing them to take action more promptly to protect patients and the public by improving the efficiency, timeliness and effectiveness of our procedures.

Following a consultation last year, the NMC have amended rules relating to:

• The investigation of fitness to practise allegations referred to the NMC, and
• Procedures for seeking and making interim orders.

NMC Acting Chief Executive and Registrar Jackie Smith said:

“We have seen a steady rise in the number of referrals in recent years. The rules governing our fitness to practise procedures date back to 2004 and these amendments will not only help us deal with the growing number of referrals more efficiently, but help address concerns raised about our processes.

“The most significant changes relate to interim orders and investigations, which should mean interim orders can be imposed more quickly when needed. We can now refer appropriate cases directly to an interim order hearing, which will significantly reduce the time it takes to make an order when required and ultimately to protect the public.

“We expect to reduce the overall time it takes to progress a case, especially where there is no case to answer. We believe the public and our stakeholders can have greater confidence in our processes and our ability to deal with nurses and midwives whose conduct or competence puts patients at risk.”

Further details of the changes can be found in the consolidated version of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (Fitness to Practise) Rules 2011.