Standards for Gynaecology Care (PDF)
This document sets out a framework for commissioners and service providers of high-level service standards that aim to improve outcomes and reduce variation in gynaecological care.
The framework builds on the Standards for Gynaecology report (PDF) published by the RCOG in 2008. The new framework provides an up-to-date structure for the delivery of quality improvement and safe care in gynaecology.
The framework covers both scheduled and unscheduled gynaecology care, including:
- Point of referral
- Initial assessment
- Treatment
- Post-operative and inpatient care
- Follow-up and discharge
It also covers specialist gynaecology, with example models of care and links to further information in a range of specialist areas.
The gynaecology framework is part of the College’s programme of work focused on providing quality care for women, which also includes:
Standard 41 has been reviewed to ensure that it is in line with the new CPD framework. It now reads:
Standard 41
To provide both scheduled and unscheduled surgical services, a gynaecologist should have an approved job plan containing all the elements recommended by the RCOG
Supporting information
In order to be able to provide on call gynaecology, the gynaecologist’s job plan should include detail on the following:
- The recommended number of gynaecology theatre lists is at least alternate weekly, but on call gynaecology capabilities should be competency based.
- Competency should be maintained in laparotomy, diagnostic laparoscopy, management of miscarriage and ectopic for OOH work.
- The job plan should specify how competency will be maintained in emergency gynaecology, or include a description of how patient safety will be assured. For example, individualising their gynaecology emergency cover or having a ‘second on’ rota for gynaecology.
- Trusts need to consider regional network models for complex emergency gynaecological surgery.