Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh

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The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (RCPE) was established in the 17th century. While the RCPE is based in Edinburgh, it is by no means just a Scottish professional body - more than half of its 7,700 Fellows, Members, Associates and Affiliates live and practice medicine outwith Scotland, in 86 countries and covering 55 specialties.

1 Origin
2 Current activities
3 See also
4 External link

[edit] Origin

Edinburgh physicians began to hold meetings in their own homes to discuss the regulation of medical practice and the ways in which standards in medicine could be improved. Sir Robert Sibbald, an eminent physician and noted historian, was a member of this group. He had the opportunity to petition King Charles II, who granted the RCPE its Royal Charter in 1681.

The twenty-one founding Fellows of the College, (one of whom was Dr William Lauder (1652-1724), brother of John Lauder, Lord Fountainhall), were concerned not only with the advancement of medicine as a reputable science, but also with alleviating the miseries of Edinburgh's poor and needy.

[edit] Current activities

The College remains independent of control by government, and its mission today lies close to the ideals of its founders, namely to promote the highest standards in internal medicine. Its principal concern is to develop and oversee an ongoing programme of medical examinations, education and training for qualified doctors who wish to undertake further (postgraduate) education and training to pursue a career in specialist (internal) medicine. Central to its role is the joint provision of the Member of the Royal College of Physicians (United Kingdom|UK) (MRCP(UK)) examination, which is the nationally (UK) and internationally recognised standard of excellence enabling a doctor to practice as a specialist (consultant).

The College acts in an advisory capacity to government and other organisations on many aspects of health, welfare and medical education.

Following successful completion of the MRCP(UK) examination, doctors are eligible to become Members and, in time, Fellows of the College.

The College was instrumental in founding the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in 1729 and, over the years, has influenced the development of medical schools in North America, Australasia, Asia and Africa.

There is a separate Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.