COVID-19: the role of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.

The entire College, notably officers and staff, responded with resilience and versatility to COVID-19. We strove to remain at the forefront of medical education during rapid change in both medical care and the scientific evidence that supports it. Every department has had to adapt, indeed evolve, to tackle the pandemic, which affected all aspects of College work, notably education, training, examinations, heritage, policy and public affairs. Several of the resulting changes will provide a strong foundation for the future development of the College. These innovations, especially in the nature and delivery of education, will both extend the reach of the College in years to come, and enhance its relevance. Effective though electronic communication has proved over the last 15 months, however, it cannot replace the social coherence and innate teamwork of a Royal College. So we look forward to re-engaging colleagues in the revitalised College.