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'Their actions must not harm patients or put them at risk.’ I’d have thought inaction to be more likely to place patients at risk. regards > On 4 Nov 2015, at 18:29, Saul Galloway <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > > In order for Niall to note your displeasure, he'd have to be on GP-UK presumably? Can we C/D? > > I do hope that the BMA organises any action so as to actually inconvenience someone this time. The last "strike" was so considerate towards the public that politicians must have seen it as a confirmation that the union was toothless. > > Saul > > On 4 November 2015 at 18:23, Adrian Midgley <[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>> wrote: > You've sent this to doctors who your records clearly define as not juniors. > > I'm surprised not to see a cartoon of what Julia would or wouldnt do, or some sort of useful specifics instead of waffling on in a way the doctors who allegedly asked for advice could surely do themselves. > > Not very good, Neill. > > > On Thu, 5 Nov 2015, 05:17 Niall Dickson <[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>> wrote: > Dear Doctor, > > As you are doubtless aware, the British Medical Association (BMA) is about to ballot its members who are doctors in training in England about taking industrial action over a new contract proposed by the UK Government. > > The decision to hold this ballot is a matter for the BMA and its members, but we have been approached by a number of doctors asking for our view, and we are conscious that many doctors would appreciate some advice on this matter. We do understand the strength of feeling on this issue, and recognise the considerable pressure that doctors and NHS employers are under to deliver the high quality and safe care that patients expect. > > It is not for us to advise doctors on how to vote and we are not able to tell doctors in training what to do. It is a decision for them. Given our statutory obligations as the independent regulator, which includes responsibility for medical training, we have no role in the relations between doctors and their employers, and we have no scope to become involved in contract negotiations. However, we are here to protect patients, and we have a duty to remind doctors and employers of their responsibilities. Our advice is intended to be helpful. > > The GMC’s core guidance, Good medical practice <http://gmc-news.org/2P18-3DNP-1ONNS-11Y91-1/c.aspx>, does not prevent doctors from taking part in industrial action. However, any doctor contemplating industrial action must follow GMC guidance, which makes it clear that they must make the care of their patient their first concern. > > Doctors should take reasonable steps to satisfy themselves that arrangements are in place to care for their patients and should not disrupt the arrangements employers have made. Doctors have a responsibility for continuity and coordination of care, and for the safe transfer of patients between different teams. Their actions must not harm patients or put them at risk. > > We recognise that the circumstances facing each doctor will be different, and it will therefore be a matter for each individual to assess their own situation and make sure this guidance is followed. > > Employers also have duties and are required to meet our standards in relation to doctors in training. In particular, they should make sure that doctors are supported in the learning environment and given appropriate clinical supervision, and that rotas are designed to minimise the adverse effects of fatigue and workload. They also have a responsibility to make sure that any patient safety concerns are acted on immediately. Doctors who have a management role or responsibility must make sure that doctors and other staff who raise a concern are protected from unfair criticism or action, including any detriment or dismissal. > > Doctors play a hugely important and positive role in society and each of them will want to reflect on the decision in front of them. This is a worrying time for everyone and we will continue to follow the ongoing situation and work with doctors to make sure they have access to the information they need to comply with their professional obligations. > > I do hope this is helpful. If you would like more information, please visit our website where you will find a Q&A <http://gmc-news.org/2P18-3DNP-1ONNS-11Z60-1/c.aspx>. > > Best wishes, > > Niall Dickson > > Chief Executive and Registrar > General Medical Council > > Unsubscribe from this newsletter <http://gmc-news.org/2P18-3DNP-D51ONNS15/uns.aspx> >