The rule of thumb in the trenches was always to keep your head low
and you won't get shot..... That unfortunate comparison is still prominent
in medicine: head down and you will get on. It seems unfortunate that many
of those who have spoken out for the good of the profession and more
importantly their patients have ended up being isolated and made to feel
like "uncleans".
The pressure of working in a high stress field will always produce
mistakes but people should ownn up to these mistakes. recurrent errors or
mismanagement however are inexcusable.
I was fortunate to help produce guidance for students during my time
in BMA MSC on whistleblowing but the fear of being punished or kicked out
of medicine before beginning remains.
I am pleased that the BMA in Wales is addressing concerns of junior
doctors - many relating to bullying and intimidation by launching their
option 7 campaign. The voice of doctors will be listened to - and delt
with in a confidential manner.
I only hope that we can change the culture of medicine and learn from
mistakes, not paper over major cracks and faults. That helps no-one except
those with reputations and large salaries to protect.
Rapid Response:
Keep below the parapet
The rule of thumb in the trenches was always to keep your head low
and you won't get shot..... That unfortunate comparison is still prominent
in medicine: head down and you will get on. It seems unfortunate that many
of those who have spoken out for the good of the profession and more
importantly their patients have ended up being isolated and made to feel
like "uncleans".
The pressure of working in a high stress field will always produce
mistakes but people should ownn up to these mistakes. recurrent errors or
mismanagement however are inexcusable.
I was fortunate to help produce guidance for students during my time
in BMA MSC on whistleblowing but the fear of being punished or kicked out
of medicine before beginning remains.
I am pleased that the BMA in Wales is addressing concerns of junior
doctors - many relating to bullying and intimidation by launching their
option 7 campaign. The voice of doctors will be listened to - and delt
with in a confidential manner.
I only hope that we can change the culture of medicine and learn from
mistakes, not paper over major cracks and faults. That helps no-one except
those with reputations and large salaries to protect.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests