Bullying, harassment and cultural change under the spotlight at AMA National Conference
The AMA is running a plenary session at AMA National Conference in Canberra on 28 May 2016 focussing exclusively on how far the profession has come to change the culture within medicine to stamp out bullying and harassment.
Chaired by Dr Danika Thiemt, outgoing Chair AMACDT, and with perspectives from Mr Phil Truskett (incoming Royal Australasian College of Surgeons President), Chris Ronalds SC (Barrister) and Dr Ruth Mitchell (Chair, Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Trainees' Association), we will explore prevailing attitudes towards bullying and harassment in medicine, identify what actions are needed to redress the issues and imbalances that exist, and examine whether the nature of the profession and workplace will allow the culture change necessary to deliver a safer, healthier and respectful work environment.
The AMA has been vocal in condemning bullying and harassment, calling for a 'whole of profession' approach and for greater cooperation between employers, unions, colleges and professional bodies, and there is consensus that the medical profession needs to take a leadership role in condemning bullying and harassment.
