Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC): Safeguarding Public Health and Upholding Professional Standards
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is the professional regulatory body for nurses and midwives in the United Kingdom. It also regulates nursing associates in England. As a statutory organization, the NMC plays a critical role in maintaining public trust by setting professional standards, regulating education, maintaining a register of qualified practitioners, and taking action when care standards fall below expectations. This article explores the history, functions, structure, roles, and impact of the NMC in the healthcare system. 1. Background and Historical Context The NMC was established in 2002 under the Nursing and Midwifery Order 2001 , replacing the UK Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC). Its creation marked a significant step in modernizing healthcare regulation and aligning it with increasing public expectations for safety, transparency, and professionalism in care delivery. Over the years, the NMC has evolved in response to changi...