ARCP outcomes are issued using a set of codes, which are defined in detail in the Gold Guide. A summary of the codes relevant to the Foundation Programme is below.
1: Satisfactory completion of F1
F1 or F2 : F1
Notes: The F1 ARCP panel should only use this outcome for foundation doctors who meet the requirements for satisfactory completion of F1.
Supplementary code applicable? No
3: Inadequate progress – additional training time required
F1 or F2: Both
Notes: This outcome should be used when the ARCP panel has identified that an additional period of training is required which will extend the duration of training.
The panel must make clear recommendations about what additional training is required and the circumstances under which it should be delivered (e.g. concerning the level of supervision). It will, however, be a matter for the deanery/foundation school to determine the details of the additional training within the context of the panel’s recommendations, since this will depend on local circumstances and resources.
The overall duration of the extension to training should normally be for a maximum of one year. The panel should consider the outcome of the remedial programme as soon as practicable after its completion. The deanery/foundation school should inform the employer and training placement provider if this outcome is assigned.
Supplementary code applicable? U code
4: Released from training programme
F1 or F2: Both
Notes: If the panel decides that the foundation doctor should be released from the training programme, the deanery/foundation school should discuss with the GMC as there may be fitness to practise concerns. The panel should seek to have employer representation.
Supplementary code applicable? U code
5: Incomplete evidence presented – additional training time may be required
F1 or F2: Both
Notes: The panel can make no statement about progress or otherwise since the foundation doctor has supplied either no information or incomplete information to the panel. If this occurs, the foundation doctor may require additional time to complete F1/F2. The panel will set a revised deadline for completion of the e-portfolio and associated evidence. Once the required documentation has been received, the panel should consider it. The panel does not have to meet with the foundation doctor and the review may be done “virtually” and issue an alternative outcome.
Supplementary code applicable? U code
6: Recommendation for the award of the Foundation Programme Certificate of Completion (FPCC)
F1 or F2: F2
Notes: The F2 ARCP panel should only use this outcome for F2 doctors who meet the requirements for satisfactory completion of the Foundation Programme.
Supplementary code applicable? No
8: Time out of Foundation Programme
F1 or F2: F2
Notes: When a doctor in training takes time out of their approved programme, this is called out of programme (OOP). All out of programme has to be approved by the postgraduate dean. OOP in foundation training is also called time out of foundation programme (TOFP) and is for a maximum of 12 months.
The panel should receive documentation from the foundation doctor indicating what they are doing out of programme and their expected date of return.
Supplementary code applicable? OOP code
Other: No ARCP review/outcome
F1 or F2: Both
Notes: The panel should use this option if the foundation doctor cannot be assigned an ARCP outcome during the standard ARCP month of June each year (e.g. working LTFT, on sick leave, interim ARCP to monitor progress etc).
All foundation doctors, whether in an active training post or not, must be assigned an ARCP outcome (or “Other”) during June. This outcome may be appropriate at other times of the year as well (for example, if a foundation doctor goes on long term sick leave or parental leave before June).
Supplementary code applicable? N code