MDU offers advice for GPs with health problems as new service launches
With today’s announcement by NHS England of the launch of a free, confidential specialist mental health service for GPs, the MDU has issued advice for GPs suffering from stress or burnout.
Dr Nicola Lennard, MDU medico-legal adviser, said:
“The announcement of a dedicated health service for GPs and GP trainees in England who are suffering from mental health and addiction problems is very welcome. GPs are under intense pressure from increasing workloads, patient demands and expectations and there is no doubt that this high-stress environment can take a toll on their mental and physical health.
“Doctors can also be more reluctant to seek help than the general public, because they fear being stigmatised or worry about their confidentiality when consulting other health professionals. This is why the new GP health service is so important.”
An MDU survey of 138 doctors involved in a GMC complaint or negligence claim found 10% had suffered health problems following a complaint or claim and 27% had left the profession or considered leaving as a result.
Dr Lennard continued: “The unfortunate reality is that doctors who are unwell or struggling to cope may be more susceptible to errors and complaints, because they may not be able to practise at their usual level. This could bring them to the attention of the GMC, adding to the doctor’s level of stress. That’s why it is so important for GPs and GP registrars to look after themselves – for the sake of their own health, their patients’ and also to prevent medico-legal issues.”
The MDU issued the following advice for GPs struggling with health issues:
- Talk to colleagues if you are worried about your health. Your colleagues will understand the strain you are under and may also be able to spot if this is beginning to affect your performance. You should be willing to listen and respond to their concerns.
- You have an ethical duty to register with a GP outside your own family (paragraph 30, GMC Good Medical Practice). If you are unwell, it's important to get an objective assessment and not rely on your own assessment of your health or 'corridor consultations' with colleagues.
- If you know or suspect your judgment or performance could be affected by your health, you must consult a suitably-qualified colleague (such as your GP, occupational health doctor or psychiatrist) and make any changes to your practice they advise.
- Don't be tempted to self-prescribe to alleviate symptoms such as exhaustion or anxiety. Self-prescribing could leave you vulnerable to a GMC complaint. Instead seek objective medical advice.
- Your medical defence organisation can also support you. If you are referred to the GMC with health concerns, you should let your defence organisation know at the earliest opportunity; they can provide advice on how to respond to the concerns and may also be able to suggest additional sources of support. If you are off sick for more than a month, the MDU can also put your membership on hold, meaning you will not have to pay a subscription for the period you are not able to work.
The NHS GP Health Service will provide free, confidential mental health support for a range of conditions including:
- Common and more complex mental health conditions
- Mental health conditions relating to physical health
- Substance misuse including support for community detoxification
- Rehabilitation and support to return to work after a period of mental ill-health.
GPs and GP trainees will be able to self-refer and there is further information at the website: www.gphealth.nhs.uk
