I empathise with the anonymous author about the perceived lack of
sensitivity
of the current Coroner system [1] and hope that things will improve
following
the introduction of a "Charter for bereaved people who come into contact
with a
reformed coroner system" which is expected in April 2012.[2]
I recognise that anger is a natural part of the grieving process but
however
useful it may have been for the author to express his/her frustration with
this
system through this article, I feel it is regrettable that use of
professional
stereotypes was not edited out, particularly as its inclusion seemed to
add
nothing to the piece. Describing pathologists as “not being suited to
confront
issues with the living by virtue of our profession” is a view that is
unjustifiable
and one I would have hoped the BMJ would not wish to be seen perpetuating.
Rapid Response:
Unhelpful stereotypes
I empathise with the anonymous author about the perceived lack of
sensitivity
of the current Coroner system [1] and hope that things will improve
following
the introduction of a "Charter for bereaved people who come into contact
with a
reformed coroner system" which is expected in April 2012.[2]
I recognise that anger is a natural part of the grieving process but
however
useful it may have been for the author to express his/her frustration with
this
system through this article, I feel it is regrettable that use of
professional
stereotypes was not edited out, particularly as its inclusion seemed to
add
nothing to the piece. Describing pathologists as “not being suited to
confront
issues with the living by virtue of our profession” is a view that is
unjustifiable
and one I would have hoped the BMJ would not wish to be seen perpetuating.
1. Anonymous. Autopsies- why families count too. BMJ 2010; 340:c902
2. www.justice.gov.uk/publications/draft-charter-bereaved.htm.
Accessed
27th
February 2010
Competing interests:
Histopathologist
Competing interests: No competing interests