10.12.12
GMC launches reporting services
Two new services have been launched to support doctors with concerns about patient safety, the General Medical Council (GMC) has announced.
The services are a confidential helpline and an online tool to help doctors decide how to report patient safety concerns.
The GMC has worked with Public Concern at Work (PCaW) to develop the helpline, which will be staffed by specially trained advisors, who can take forward information to facilitate an investigation by the GMC, or direct callers to other services such as the CQC.
The launch is part of an ongoing commitment to greater working transparency in the NHS.
Niall Dickson, chief executive of the GMC, said: “Being a good doctor is more than simply being a good clinician. It requires a commitment to improve the quality of services and a willingness to speak up when things are not right – this is not always easy, but it is at the heart of medical professionalism.
“In the past, many doctors have felt uneasy raising concerns about policies and procedures or about their colleagues. We hope this new service will be useful in helping them navigate their way through the system. We also hope it will give doctors the confidence to act when they have concerns
“The eyes and ears of health professionals are often the most valuable means of protecting patients and ensuring high quality care.”
Dean Royles, director of the NHS Employers organisation, said: “No one wants staff to be in a situation where they feel they can't report concerns and we have a duty to make it clear that the sooner concerns or worries are raised, the better it is for patients. Patient safety is paramount and it is essential staff know and feel that any concerns they raise about poor standards are heard and acted upon.
“We believe it is important that employers, regulators and other professional bodies work together to constantly reinforce messages to reassure staff that they can speak openly, and we are delighted to be able to support this initiative from GMC.”
Cathy James, chief executive of Public Concern at Work, commented: “It is essential that there are safe and accepted routes for doctors to raise patient safety concerns to overcome the very real perception that you will suffer if you blow the whistle as a doctor.”
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