Blogs

Nobody’s Perfect – Not Even Doctors

12 Feb 2019

Male doctor speaks encouragingly to older man

As a doctor-owned Member organisation, MDA National is acutely aware of the importance of doctors’ health and the special challenges that doctors experience while trying to maintain work life balance, especially when working long hours.

Two recent articles explored the topic of perfectionism in the medical profession. Perfectionism is a common trait among doctors, and although it can be helpful, it can also lead to guilt and self-doubt when doctors are confronted with situations where they were not perfect. 

A complaint or claim is a confronting and distressing experience for most doctors. Most medical practitioners will receive at least one complaint or claim in their career, but many are unprepared for the intense stress and self-doubt this will cause. Our staff understand this.

We offer Members our Doctors for Doctors program which is a confidential peer support service for Members in distress during a medico-legal matter. Doctors who are employed or engaged by MDA National to provide this service are exempt from mandatory reporting obligations so Members can share their concerns openly with a peer who understands the profession and the personal impact of a medico-legal matter.

This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters.

 

Library

Reportable Deaths and Coronial Matters

MDA National's Daniel Spencer (Case Manager - Solicitor) and Karen Lam (Medico-Legal Adviser) discuss when a person's death should be reported to the Coroner and what to do if the Coroner requests a statement or report.

Death Certificates

When a doctor can write a death certificate (where the death does not need to be reported to the Coroner), considerations when writing the death certificate and how to complete it accurately.

Communication in healthcare teams

Why good and effective communication is a vital part of delivering quality and safe patient care

Doctors, Let's Talk: Setting Boundaries At Work

A conversation with Nicola Campbell, Psychiatry Registrar, that explores the necessity of setting professional boundaries as a Junior Doctor.

Podcasts

07 Dec 2022