Professional focus

The focus of IMRAS is to help doctors maintain a clear, compliant annual appraisal cycle and build a well-evidenced, well-structured portfolio that supports revalidation readiness especially when the doctor does not have a designated body or Responsible Officer (RO).

  • Appraisal structure: pre-appraisal portfolio review, appraisal discussion, summary and PDP outputs.
  • Portfolio readiness: supporting information mapped to scope of practice and professional standards.
  • Revalidation support: preparation of documentation and submission readiness (where contracted).

Who this profile is relevant for

  • Doctors in private practice without an RO/designated body
  • Overseas-based doctors maintaining a GMC licence
  • Doctors between posts or in portfolio roles
  • GPs (case-by-case) seeking independent appraisal support outside NHS designated body schemes
Important: IMRAS does not provide Responsible Officer functions or statutory decision-making roles. Final revalidation decisions remain with the GMC. See Terms.

Appraisal experience (NHS Wales)

Dr Lee previously held an appraiser appointment within NHS Wales (Hywel Dda University Health Board) and completed appraisals annually during that appointment.

  • Appraiser appointment: Hywel Dda University Health Board (NHS Wales), Feb 2021 – Nov 2024
  • Appraisals completed: 2021 (5), 2022 (10), 2023 (13), 2024 (15)

This background informs a structured, evidence-led approach to appraisal discussions, supporting information quality, and proportionate signposting where concerns or complexity are identified.

Clinical & governance background

While Dr Lee’s clinical background is in ophthalmology, appraisal and revalidation support is provided across all medical specialties, including general practice, and is based on professional standards rather than specialty-specific clinical expertise.

  • Consultant-grade ophthalmology experience: including NHS locum consultant roles
  • Governance orientation: reflective practice, documentation quality, and professional standards
  • Scope clarity: appraisal support only but no prescribing and no clinical opinions

What IMRAS does not do

  • Responsible Officer functions or statutory decision-making roles
  • NHS contractual GP appraisal within NHS designated body appraisal schemes
  • Medical treatment, clinical care, prescribing, or clinical second opinions
  • Coaching, mentoring, remediation, or performance management services
  • Advocacy in active GMC fitness-to-practise investigations

If your circumstances are complex (e.g., significant governance concerns, active investigations, remediation), the screening process will clarify whether IMRAS can accept the case and what alternative signposting may be appropriate.

Frequently asked questions

Is this an RO or designated body service?

No. IMRAS does not provide Responsible Officer functions or statutory decision-making. Where relevant, Suitable Person oversight may be arranged to support revalidation submissions. Final revalidation decisions remain with the GMC.

Can GPs use this service?

Yes, on a case-by-case basis and subject to suitability screening. This service does not provide NHS contractual GP appraisal within NHS designated body appraisal schemes.

Can overseas work be included in appraisal and revalidation?

Yes. Overseas clinical or professional work can be included where it is within the doctor’s declared scope of practice and supported by appropriate evidence. Appraisal focuses on professional standards, reflection and supporting information.

Next step

If you believe this service may be suitable for you, start with the suitability screening questionnaire. IMRAS will confirm whether the case can be accepted and outline the recommended pathway.