The College of Medical Associate Professionals (CMAPs) welcomes the judgment by Mrs. Justice Lambert dismissing in full the judicial review claim brought by Anaesthetists United (AU) against the General Medical Council (GMC).  

In her ruling, Mrs. Justice Lambert confirmed that the GMC had acted rationally and within its public duty in adopting the medical model for the regulation of Physician Associates (PAs) and Anaesthesia Associates (AAs). The judgment reaffirmed that it was appropriate for the GMC to avoid setting arbitrary limits on Associates’ scope of practice, and to instead ensure safe practice through rigorous training, professional standards, and the oversight of medical supervisors. 

Justice Lambert was clear that existing GMC guidance on professional titles and patient communication is sufficient to ensure transparency and protect informed consent. 

CMAPs have already developed guidance on continuing professional development (CPD), we are preparing to support MAPs through revalidation, and we are ready to work with national organisations on postgraduate training. As the representative college for Associate professionals, CMAPs will be leading the relevant conversations with NHSE, NHS Employers, and the medical colleges. 

CMAPs will work in collaboration with organisations who share our commitment to the safe and effective deployment of MAPs across healthcare settings. We have already initiated communication with the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC) following the Leng Review, offering to work together constructively on how MAPs are deployed and supported in practice. 

Our goal is clear; to ensure that patients benefit from highly trained, well-supported Medical Associate Professionals working within effective, collaborative teams as valued members of the MDT.