ARCP evidence
How do I know there is enough evidence for each FPC?
The FP Curriculum (page 36, ‘Portfolio evidence (curriculum linkage)’) states:
“To satisfy the ARCP panel, the FD will be required to provide evidence demonstrating complete coverage
of the curriculum and thus achievement of the HLOs.”
For HLO 1, which covers clinical skills, you need evidence that you have done something to demonstrate each capability in the workplace, such as a mini-CEX or DOPS. This can be supported by evidence of demonstrating capabilities in simulation and by evidence of knowledge such as a CBD or online/f2f learning.
There is no specific number of pieces of evidence, although your e-portfolio will allow up to ten pieces of evidence for each FPC. You can explain your choice of evidence in the summary narrative for each HLO. Remember, you need to demonstrate capabilities in managing mental as well as physical health.
For HLOs 2 and 3, much of the evidence will come from TAB, reflection, clinical supervisor reports and the portfolio itself although you should consider using SLEs too including the LEADER tool and Developing the Clinical Teacher (DCT). Again, you should explain your choice of evidence using the summary narrative.
If you are unsure, you should ask your ES for advice.
Further information on curriculum mapping is on our Assessments page.
Will content in my e-portfolio that is not mapped to an FPC still be viewed by the panel?
The ARCP panel will primarily focus on reviewing the information you have mapped against the curriculum. If there is any information they feel is missing, or something they’d like to know more about, they may look further into your e-portfolio. It is important that you map key evidence, with a clear rationale, to your FPCs. However, it is also important that you do not over-map, as this is time-consuming and unhelpful for both you and the ARCP panel.
Further information on curriculum mapping is on our Assessments page.
What if I do not provide enough evidence?
If the panel thinks you have probably reached the required standard but feel there are gaps in the evidence you have provided, you will most likely be awarded an outcome 5 and given two weeks to provide the evidence that is missing.
If the panel thinks you have not met the required standard, you will be awarded an outcome 3 or 4. Further information on what these outcome codes mean is on our ARCP outcomes page.
Further information about what happens when ARCP outcomes are assigned is on our Overview of ARCP process page.
Do I need to pass an ALS course?
No. There are no specific course requirements. An ALS course is a very good way to show evidence of many of the capabilities in FPC2 but you will need to underpin this with evidence of dealing with acute mental health issues and with evidence of caring for the sick patient in the workplace.
Further information on curriculum requirements regarding life support capabilities are available in the ARCP checklist (“Satisfactory completion of all curriculum outcomes” section) and in the FP Curriculum (page 22 – HLOs and FPCs, and page 83 – Simulation)
Timing and logistics of ARCP
Do I need to attend the ARCP?
No, ARCPs are usually carried out without the foundation doctor present. The panel will review your e-portfolio and any other notable records (for example, absence records, if applicable), so it is especially important that you provide all the necessary information and evidence in your e-portfolio. If the panel awards an outcome 3 or 4 you will be asked to attend after the panel has met and the decision will be explained to you. This meeting may occur remotely.
Further information about how ARCPs are run is on our Overview of ARCP process page.
Can I appeal the outcome of an ARCP?
If you have received an outcome 3 or 4 and you feel the panel have not followed the correct process in deciding your outcome, you have the right to appeal in writing to the postgraduate dean within 10 working days.
Further information about the ARCP outcome appeal process is in the Gold Guide pages 90-94 (hosted on the COPMeD website).
I am working LTFT/have been on maternity leave/OOP – do I need an ARCP at the same time as everyone else?
Yes, all doctors in the programme must have ARCP in June/July. A further panel will be convened when you reach the next critical progression point. Specific information about progression when working LTFT is in the Gold Guide pages 43-44, paragraphs 3.132-3 (hosted on the COPMeD website). Section 4 ‘Progressing as a specialty postgraduate doctor in training or foundation doctor’ is relevant to all foundation doctors.
Further information on the timing of ARCP in general is on our ARCP introduction page.