Royal College of Physicians

Royal College of Physicians

A UK body founded by royal charter as the College of Physicians by Henry VIII in 1518, which later became a Royal College. The College supports its physician fellows and members during their careers, and in doing so improves the quality of patient care. It sets and monitors standards of medical training to ensure that patients are treated by fully trained and capable doctors; sits on consultant appointment committees; produces evidence-based clinical guidelines and audits to improve clinical care; provides or sponsors education programmes to improve physicians’ knowledge and skills; and takes a wide role in public health.

The College campaigns for change, advising government and Parliament, and taking part in national debates on medical, clinical and public health issues. Membership to the College is by examination and entitles one to the postnominal MRCP. Fellowship to the College is by election from the general membership and entitles one to the postnominal FRCP.