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

Doctors Let's Talk: Get Yourself A Fricking GP

Get yourself a fricking GP stat! is a conversation with Dr Lam, 2019 RACGP National General Practitioner of the Year, rural GP and GP Anesthetics trainee, that explores the importance of finding your own GP as a Junior Doctor.

Podcasts

25 Oct 2022

Systematic efforts to reduce harms due to prescribed opioids – webinar recording

Efforts are underway across the healthcare system to reduce harms caused by pharmaceutical opioids. This 43-min recording of a live webinar, delivered 11 March 2021, is an opportunity for prescribers to check, and potentially improve, their contribution to these endeavours. Hear from an expert panel about recent opioid reforms by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. 

Diplomacy in a hierarchy: tips for approaching a difficult conversation

Have you found yourself wondering how to broach a tough topic of conversation? It can be challenging to effectively navigate a disagreement with a co-worker, especially if they're 'above' you; however, it's vital for positive team dynamics and safe patient care. In this recording of a live webinar you'll have the opportunity to learn from colleagues' experiences around difficult discussions and hear from a diverse panel moderated by Dr Kiely Kim (medico-legal adviser and general practitioner). Recorded live on 2 September 2020.