Looking after the health of doctors
AMA Position Statement on the Health and Wellbeing of Doctors and Medical Students
The AMA today released a revised Position Statement on the Health and Wellbeing of Doctors and Medical Students.
AMA President, Dr Andrew Pesce, said it is important that doctors and medical students look after their own health as well as their patients throughout their training and professional careers.
“Research shows that doctors with healthy personal lifestyle habits are more likely to impart healthy behaviours to their patients,” Dr Pesce said.
“As a profession, it is important that doctors look after their own health and the health of their colleagues.
“Many doctors can become so focused on their practices and the health of their patients that they neglect their own health and wellbeing.
“It is difficult for doctors to properly look after their patients if they are not staying healthy and well themselves.
“Junior doctors may experience pressures and stress throughout their training due to long hours and irregular shifts.
“Experienced doctors confront barriers to their own good health throughout their careers. These include embarrassment and perceptions of weakness, lack of time, and a fear that they could be reported to the Medical Board if they seek treatment for an ailment.
“The AMA recommends that all doctors should have their own general practitioner rather than attempting to diagnose and treat themselves.
“Doctors and medical students should make better life choices to maintain their good health. They should take regular leave, enjoy good nutrition, undertake regular exercise, and pursue a balanced lifestyle between work, family and leisure.
“They should also keep on eye on the health of their fellow doctors. Doctors have legal and ethical responsibilities to respond to when they become aware of a colleague who is having health problems,” Dr Pesce said.
A survey of junior doctors conducted by the AMA in 2008 showed that only 66 per cent of junior doctors had their own GP, compared with 80 per cent in the general population.
The AMA Position Statement on the Health and Wellbeing of Doctors and Medical Students is on the AMA website at http://ama.com.au/node/6551
13 April 2011
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761
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