The General Medical Council (GMC) has today (11 July 2023) published the results of its national training survey. The survey revealed that micro-aggressions, negative comments and stereotyping are just some of the workplace issues affecting trainee doctors
Commenting on this, Dr John Holden, Chief Medical Officer at MDDUS, said:
“The findings of the GMC's latest national training survey which highlighted the prevalence of workplace discrimination experienced by trainee doctors, including micro-aggressions, is worrying.
“It is also disheartening that many trainees feel uncomfortable reporting discrimination due to fear of adverse consequences.
“This reflects our own previous research which showed that a quarter of junior doctors have experienced racism, and more than half of those said they had not felt adequately supported by senior managers when they reported racist abuse.
“We know that discrimination harms staff retention and well-being. Urgent action is needed to create a safe and supportive environment for all trainees, especially at a time when the NHS is under significant pressure.
“Trainee doctors need to feel supported by their Trusts to address discrimination at work, and must be confident that these concerns will be dealt with in an open and transparent way. Trusts also need to show that they are managing the issue comprehensively and at a senior level as well as dealing properly with individual cases”
ENDS
Notes:
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 56,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Lisa Walker, communications manager, on lwalker@mddus.com or 07976 886552.
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