Handling concerns raised about doctors: time for local changes

Abstract

NHS organisations must be assured that appropriate protections and support are in place for their employees, especially when incidents occur or concerns arise. These assurances are an essential part of fostering a just and inclusive culture under an overarching banner of compassionate leadership, while also ensuring that any concerns are properly investigated. In mid-2019, the General Medical Council published their Hamilton review into Gross Negligence Manslaughter. As a result, NHS Improvement wrote to NHS trusts about managing local investigation processes for disciplinary investigations of all types. Employers and educators of healthcare professionals have a responsibility to consider how they will put these recommendations and requirements into practice, yet there is currently no clear implementation guidance. The authors make implementation recommendations that should be considered by NHS organisations and Health Education England as part of their compassionate leadership and just culture processes.