RCS fully supports GMC’s report on improving doctors’ wellbeing

Patients receive the best standard of care when we support doctors’ wellbeing, said an RCS council member in support of a new report from the General Medical Council.

Published today, Caring for doctors, Caring for patients identifies a need to address the wellbeing of doctors faced with higher workloads, whose own health impacts on patient care.

Authors of the report Professor Michael West and Dame Denise Coia examined the root causes of clinicians’ poor health and wellbeing at work, as well as solution to tackle these. They found that creating supportive, safe and inclusive working environments was key.

In a statement of support, RCS Council Member Scarlett McNally said:

‘Surgeons work long and hard, often under stress, in a system under pressure.  As human beings, they need support to do their job well in this tough environment.

‘The Royal College of Surgeons of England fully supports today’s report, and its recognition that surgeons don’t only care for others, they also sometimes need some care themselves.

‘The report’s focus on supporting doctors’ autonomy and ensuring there is a feeling of belonging in their workplace, is important to doctors’ wellbeing. Feeling that you are part of a team, and are trusted to exercise autonomy responsibly, are both key to doing your job well. When staff are supported properly they perform at their best, and in turn patients get the best standard of care.’