When a doctor dies: Responding after an Unexpected Death or Suicide
Funded by the Ministry of Health and researched and produced by Doctors’ Health NSW, this guide provides a framework for hospital leaders to respond effectively and compassionately to the sudden death of a doctor, including by suicide.
The guide is informed by research carried out by Doctors’ Health NSW in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame, NSW and aims to support those affected, reduce distress, and prevent further mental health issues within the medical community.
To download the guide and for more resources, go to:
When a Doctor Dies: Responding after an Unexpected Death or Suicide
Surviving the complaints process
Receiving a complaint as a medical practitioner might not be unusual but can be an awful experience. Last year more than 3000 complaints were referred to the Medical Council of NSW (according to their annual report) and even though over 80 percent of these resulted in no further action, the uncertainty and stress can have a lasting impact.
Surviving the Complaints Process is the latest webinar in a series designed by the Black Dog Institute for GPs and other health professionals. Dr Kathryn Hutt shares her experience, insights and strategies for surviving the complaints process, gained from her many years working as a medical advisor for the Medical Council and in her current role as Medical Director of Doctors' Health NSW, talking to the doctors who call the Doctors’ Health phoneline for support.
To listen to the Surviving the Complaints Process webinar: https://youtu.be/I2GpeiPZ5nM
Whether you are dealing with a complaint or just want to talk to a non-judgemental peer, you can contact Doctors' Health NSW for independent and confidential support. Our experienced doctors are here 24/7: Call 02 9437 6552.
Should mandatory health checks for doctors be based solely on reaching their 70th birthday?
The Australian Medical Board has proposed that regular health checks for doctors over 70 should be introduced to ensure patient safety. The Board states that their data indicates complaints against doctors in this age group have significantly increased, prompting the need for these checks. Others in the profession argue that age-based health checks could lead to discrimination and that a focus on actual competency is fairer. The Australian Medical Association echoes this concern, advocating for evidence-based, non-discriminatory assessments that support doctors rather than potentially forcing early retirement.
In consultation with doctors and GPs with expertise in the doctors' health field, Doctors' Health NSW has submitted a response to the public consultation:
Medical Board public consultation: Health checks for late career doctors - Doctors Health NSW response part 1
Submission to MBA: Health checks for late career doctors - Doctors' Health NSW response part 2
Commenting on the Doctors' Health NSW submission, a recently retired GP said:
"I think these measured responses are excellent, putting emphasis on encouraging every doctor to have established relationships with a GP who supports them with their health care decisions. Longitudinal clinical relationships both establish trust and detect any changes early. Much better a doctor has the opportunity to plan for possible retirement earlier in an illness, particularly dementia, feeling they retain some autonomy rather than feeling they are being disempowered, or worse punished, for aging. Thank you to everyone involved."
Doctors' Health NSW Impact Report 2023
We are pleased to present our 2023 Impact Report which highlights our recent achievements and details some of our ongoing initiatives.
Doctors' Health NSW Impact Report 2023
Doctors' Health NSW Medical Director, Dr Kathryn Hutt said: "It is a privilege to continue to support our medical colleagues, dentists and veterinarians, and the students of these professions. The health of our clinicians is a vital ingredient in quality patient care, enables effective teamwork in the workplace, and is essential for the overall health of our communities."
Doctors’ Health NSW is proud to be an ACNC registered charity, and we are committed to ensuring that trusted, confidential doctor to doctor support is available to all, whenever it is needed.
