The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has allowed doctors and newly appointed consultants to vote in the 2026 election of vice-presidents and councillors. For the first time in its 500-year history, RCP members can vote this month. Previously, members' voting rights had been limited since last year. The change is part of the RCP's reform agenda following a review by the Royal Fund in 2024. The review identified a pervasive lack of confidence in the college's governance to address members' concerns about associate doctors. The RCP has updated its bylaws to allow for voting in the election of president and council members.