<p style="color: #262626">We are continuing with an on-going programme of work to make sure that our fitness to practise procedures are suitable for modern and effective regulation. It is vitally important that we investigate all complaints satisfactorily in order to reach a fair, proportionate and timely outcome in the best interests of public protection. In 2011, we reviewed our fitness to practise procedures and concluded that there was a need to improve and modernise our operations.</p>
<p style="color: #262626">Between October and November 2011, we asked for feedback on preliminary proposals which explored the possible introduction of a new role for case examiners. Case examiners would have the authority to make certain decisions about the outcome of a case following initial assessment by a caseworker.  We have used the feedback that was received to help develop a full version of our proposals. We are now launching a public consultation about the latest proposals.</p>
<div style="color: #262626">We are keen to hear from all stakeholders who have an interest in the future of Fitness to Practise including patients, registrants and professional organisations. Your views will help to ensure that the proposals take into account the views of our stakeholders before we consider whether to move ahead with requesting the legislative changes needed to introduce case examiners in our processes.</div>
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