MPS Update

Taking criticism on the chin

MPS Medical Director, Dr Priya Singh, considers the personal side of claims and complaints

We know that as the subject of criticism, whether it is valid or not, such a sense of perspective can be very difficult to achieve

Most of us will receive negative criticism or feedback (that may come as a surprise) in the course of our career. It can be a helpful part of development, both personally and professionally. In healthcare, criticism can come from many different sources – often simultaneously – and increasingly this has included criticism made in the media. This has significant ramifications for our professional and personal lives, and this issue of Casebook touches on all these scenarios.

Objectively, we know how important it is to maintain a sense of perspective, to separate criticisms of our actions from criticisms of us as a person, to take on board valid feedback and to use it to shape our future practice. Equally, we know that as the subject of criticism, whether it is valid or not, such a sense of perspective can be very difficult to achieve. This is particularly so as our experience shows that the vast majority of doctors who are the subject of claims or complaints are competent and caring individuals who find themselves involved in challenging situations.

It can be particularly frustrating for doctors when they are openly criticised in the press regarding their care of a patient. The principle of patient confidentiality makes public retaliation unwise, and this can feel most unjust. The MPS Press Office is here to help with knowledgeable, sympathetic advice and the ability to bring an objective assessment as to how best to manage such situations on your behalf.

We have the expertise to negotiate the procedural aspects of formal and public criticism. Additionally, with the individual and personal support of your medicolegal adviser, we can help to identify – and to support you in dealing with – the professional and personal repercussions that increasingly result from the stress of being involved in a medicolegal case.

MPS debates global risks

Global risks and patient safety were identified on the world stage at the Physician Insurers Association of America (PIAA) international conference. MPS joined medical organisations from across the globe in Paris to debate the issues affecting doctors and their patients. “MPS takes an active part in assessing emerging risks, promoting high quality and safer practice,” said Dr Priya Singh. “With four speakers, MPS was an authoritative voice at the conference.”

The programme explored emerging risks in world healthcare, communications risks across healthcare teams, the effects of the increasing mobility of doctors and patients, and the factors and costs associated with compensating brain-damaged infants.

PIAA is a trade association that includes more than 50 US professional liability and malpractice insurance companies, owned and operated by doctors and dentists. MPS is one of the PIAA’s 13 international affiliate members. A French organisation called La Sou Medical hosted this year’s event. PIAA hosts annual conferences in the UK and international conferences every three years.

For more information visit: www.piaa-paris2008.com.

Casebook goes digital

Casebook has followed in the footsteps of radio and moved into the digital age. It is now accessible in a digital format on the MPS website, where pages can be turned by the click of a mouse. Developments include a search function to find certain words or phrases, active web links and a tool that allows readers to zoom in and out of individual pages.

It will not replace the paper version, but readers can choose to opt out of receiving a paper copy if they wish. MPS is looking at extending this technology to all of its publications, including Your Practice, New Doctor and GP Registrar. Access the digital edition of the latest Casebook using the link on the right of this page.

What do you think of the digital edition? Email comments to: publications@mps.org.uk.