Comment on GMC's proposals to improve patient protection

Commenting on the General Medical Council's proposals to improve patient protection and public confidence in doctors, Mr David Ward, Vice-President, Royal College of Surgeons said:

“Serious clinical errors can be devastating for patients and their families.  Although such incidents are rare, patients must have confidence that if something does go wrong, they will be told honestly about what happened and action will be taken to make sure it does not happen to someone else. If this does not happen and a complaint against a doctor is upheld, it is right that the doctor is held to account for his or her response at the time.

“It is very important that doctors, patients and other health professionals respond to the consultation and have their say on these proposals because whilst we must ensure that patients are properly protected if they suffer harm we must also make sure that doctors are always treated fairly. We want an open culture in the NHS where medical staff can apologise to patients and address any errors in clinical judgement without fear."

Notes to editors

1. Anyone wishing to respond to the GMC consultation can do so online: http://www.gmc-uk.org/concerns/25346.asp
2. The Royal College of Surgeons of England is committed to enabling surgeons to achieve and maintain the highest standards of surgical practice and patient care. Registered charity number: 212808.

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