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Royal College of Physicians

The Royal College of Physicians plays a leading role in the delivery of high quality patient care by setting standards of medical practice and promoting clinical excellence.

We provide physicians in the UK and overseas with education, training and support throughout their careers. An independent body representing over 20,000 Fellows and Members worldwide, we advise and work with government, the NHS, patients and other professions to improve health and healthcare.

Our objectives are:

  • To set and improve standards for clinical practice
  • To support physicians in their practice of medicine
  • To promote and provide continuing professional development throughout a doctor's career
  • To promote patient-centred care
  • To advise the Government, the public and the profession on healthcare issues
  • To promote the advancement of medical knowledge
  • To foster collaboration with relevant bodies in health and healthcare

What is a Physician?

Physicians are doctors who have undergone specialist training. They usually work in hospitals and treat patients who have been referred to them for specialist care by other doctors, such as GPs. They practice acute medicine and / or one of the 29 specialties, such as cardiology, neurology or oncology, but they do not carry out surgery.

Royal College of Physicians

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