The Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) is pleased to support the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FICM) in its transition to an independent College of Intensive Care Medicine, planned for July 2026. 

The RCoA Board of Trustees has formally agreed to support the establishment of the College of Intensive Care Medicine as a charitable company. In doing so, we recognise FICM’s leadership of the distinct and growing specialty of intensive care medicine and its ability to operate on an equal footing with other Medical Colleges. 

FICM has had great success since it was established in 2010, with the RCoA acting as its principal home among eight parent Colleges. The Faculty has played a vital role in shaping critical care services by setting standards, developing training and examinations and advocating for its members. 

Over the last two and a half years, the FICM Board, with the support of the RCoA, has developed a pathway to becoming an independent College. Member engagement and collaboration has been integral to the process and will continue to be front and centre as plans for the new College progress.  

Dr Claire Shannon, RCoA President and Chair of the Board of Trustees said: 

“The RCoA fully supports FICM’s move to become the College of Intensive Care Medicine in July next year, and we look forward to continued collaboration in the years ahead. 

“Intensive care medicine has developed rapidly in recent years, and the creation of an independent College is a fitting reflection of that progress and ambition. 

“Many doctors working in anaesthetic and intensive care are dual members of the RCoA and FICM. Supporting their professional needs will be central as we move forward through the transition process.”