Physicians are privileged to have the daily opportunity to make a difference to people's lives, usually when illness strikes and individuals are most vulnerable. But we cannot take for granted the trust patients afford physicians nor assume that we know best the care they want.
This College is dedicated to embedding the views of patients, carers and members of the public in all of our work through the Patient and Carer Network and Patient and Carer Involvement Steering Group. This has informed and enriched the College's activities for several years and is managed through our dedicated Patient Involvement Unit.
This joint working also strengthens our advocacy role in the knowledge that the interests of patients are foremost when we call for improvements in our health services.
The College is immensely grateful to those who are already giving help and support to our patient voice and welcomes those who join us in the future.
Professor Ian Gilmore
President, Royal College of Physicians