Tolerance of bad behaviour not acceptable
AMA President, A/Professor Brian Owler, this week wrote to members encouraging them not to tolerate unacceptable behaviour directed towards to them and to speak out about it. Systemic harassment or abuse will only be defeated by taking it on, he advised.
A/Prof Owler’s letter was in response to comments made by a senior female surgeon late last week suggesting that for the sake of their careers women trainees should not resist or report harassment.
The AMA rejects absolutely workplace behaviour which belittles, humiliates, or harasses for any reason, including for reasons of gender. Such behaviour is unacceptable in our workplaces, and in our society.
In his letter, A/Prof Owler encourages those in the medical profession experiencing such behaviour to raise the issue with their employer, College or, if not comfortable doing that, with the AMA.
Transcript: AMA President, ABC News Radio, 9 March 2015
AMA Position Statement on Workplace Bullying and Harassment - 2009
