Audit as part of summative assessment of vocational training

Written evidence of the ability to carry out audit and performance review looks likely to be one of the four components of a summative assessment package for the end of vocational training. This paper seeks to raise the issues involved in this process. The features of audit which lend themselves to assessment of the attributes of a general practitioner are discussed. The criteria which might be used to assess a written submission are presented. A possible mechanism for marking and grading is suggested, and strategies for optimizing the validity and reliability of that assessment discussed. A timescale for implementation is also suggested. These issues need to be discussed and a process piloted if a credible mechanism is to be in place by August 1996.