GP perceptions of appraisal: professional development, performance management, or both?

GPs' perceptions of the tension between the professional development and revalidation aspects of the current GP appraisal scheme were analysed. Evidence was gathered from focus groups representing general practice in Northern Ireland. The results indicate that there is support for the professional development aspects of appraisal but the link with revalidation is problematic, thereby potentially undermining GP support for the scheme. Greater clarity about the precise nature of the linkage is required to avoid a process that fails to fully satisfy the requirements of either appraisal or revalidation.