Doctors whose competence has been reviewed under the Medical Practitioners Act 1995.

AIM

An analysis of referrals for competence reviews since the introduction of the Medical Practitioners Act 1995.

METHODS

A retrospective file review at the Medical Council of New Zealand.

RESULTS

In the six years to 1 July 2002, 258 doctors were referred. The characteristics of the referrals and the concerns, and the demographics of the doctors are presented. Competence reviews were ordered for 114 doctors and carried out for 92, of whom 23 did not meet the standard. The demographics of this group are also presented.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the competence concerns received by the Council, less than half result in a decision to review the doctor's competence, and of these only one quarter led to the finding that the doctor did not to meet the required standard. The characteristics of this group appear to match overseas findings, but the numbers in New Zealand are small. The cost of uncovering this small group is significant.