Philosophy

What does MPS stand for?

MPS supports doctors with the legal problems that arise as a result of their professional practice. We are a discretionary, mutual, non-profit organisation, with no shareholders to answer to, so our decisions are not made solely on the grounds of financial expediency.

Our philosophy is to support good practice in the medical and dental professions. Advice and guidance is given by groups of doctors and dentists – on a case-by-case basis – in order to support and encourage those practitioners who are doing their best, and to provide compensation to patients when appropriate.

In practice that means

Supporting good practice – We firmly believe that prevention is better than cure. With that in mind we devote substantial resources to risk management, concentrating on areas which have been shown to cause problems, such as patient confidentiality or keeping good medical records. With publications, seminars and individual consultancy, we aim to encourage the safest practice, enabling the medical profession to provide an excellent service to the community.

Specialist advice – In the increasingly complex medicolegal environment doctors often require expert advice. Our team of medicolegal consultants, all of whom have extensive experience in practice and medical law are available to discuss any problems that arise for members.

Legal support – When required, MPS has access to some of the most experienced and respected barristers and solicitors in New Zealand.

Peace of mind – MPS helps doctors to deal professionally with any complaints and, when appropriate, pay costs and damages. We believe that patients’ problems should be dealt with to the highest standards, quickly and fairly.