The falsely accused
Nurse P and PGY3 Dr S have a history of not getting along with each other, Nurse P often made complaints about Dr S’ practice. Including that Dr S recorded a clinical examination in patient notes that had not been performed.
The allegation was escalated to AHPRA who notified Dr S about a professional misconduct complaint. The doctor denied all allegations but the APHRA investigation continued.
After contacting MIPS
Assistance was provided to finalise a response and submissions to the hospital and AHPRA.
MIPS assisted Dr S during the investigation, resulting in the matter being successfully defended in that the allegations were unproven (the complaints were in fact false and designed by Nurse P to tarnish the reputation of Dr S). AHPRA determined that there were no findings of misconduct. The associated legal cost was funded by MIPS.
Key messages
- You will not get on with everyone but try to as best as you can. If you need to escalate a conflict to someone higher up, then you should do so. They may be able to facilitate a way forward to avoid further problems.
- The Medical and Dental Board Code of Conduct states that good relationships with colleagues, nurses and other healthcare professionals strengthen the doctor patient relationship and enhances patient care. It is important that you remain professional and put your patients care at the forefront in all your practice.
- Registered healthcare practitioners are required by law to report ‘notifiable conduct’ by making a mandatory notification (complaint or concern) to AHPRA.
- MIPS can advise and assist members in relation to workplace or employment related disputes in some circumstances.
