What does a medical administrator do when an aging, small town local doctor, in a region with medical staff shortage, starts to get too tired and makes mistakes? In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare, host Dr David Rankin is in discussion with Associate Professor Kathleen Atkinson. Kath is a very senior clinician and medical administrator with over 35 years’ experience as a rural generalist. She has held health leadership, medical education and clinical governance roles in Tasmania, New South Wales, Queensland, WA and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

They explore a common scenario of an aging rural GP facing burnout and discuss the implications for patient safety. The podcast delves into the complexities of supporting aging practitioners, managing confidentiality, and the need for a sustainable and attractive career path for the future medical workforce. Join Dr Rankin and Professor Atkinson as they navigate the landscape of rural healthcare, offering solutions.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the best approaches to being an effective medical department manager — even if you come to the job reluctantly? In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare, host Dr David Rankin speaks with Dr Simon Collins about the challenges faced by medical department heads, focusing on a hypothetical scenario involving tensions between emergency and anaesthetic departments.

The episode covers issues like ensuring safe coverage, managing relationships with other departments, addressing after-hours attendance, and educating junior doctors. Dr Collins, who is the Acting General Manager and director of Medical Services at Bankstown Lidcombe Hospital in the Southwestern Sydney Local Health District, provides insights into building credibility, handling moonlighting, and fostering collaboration between critical care departments.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When an inpatient takes his own life, it sparks myriad issues and concerns for any medical administrator. In this episode, Dr David Rankin and Dr Nick O'Connor explore the challenges of medical administration in this tragic scenario, through the lens of the restorative justice approach.

Dr O’Connor is the Clinical Lead of the Mental Health Patient Safety Program for the NSW Clinical Excellence Commission. He is a psychiatrist with more than 25 years’ experience in clinical leadership and assessing medical practitioners for the NSW Medical Council.

David and Nick discuss the hypothetical case of Ed, a psychiatric patient who experiences a devastating outcome. This episode emphasizes a shift from blame to systemic understanding, tackling issues like psychological safety and compounded harm.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How would a seasoned medical administrator handle a doctor whose eyesight is failing? In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare Dr David Rankin delves into the complex world of medical administration with the Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Acting Director of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Western Health, Dr Rupert Sherwood.

Dr Sherwood is presented with the challenges and dilemmas raised by a scenario involving a seasoned gynaecologist whose deteriorating eyesight raises concerns about patient safety and the potential impact on their clinical practice. Dr Sherwood candidly discusses the sensitive issues surrounding this situation, including the need for a confidential, supportive, and well-documented approach. The conversation offers perspectives on balancing patient care, professional integrity, and the emotional and financial considerations that come into play.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare, we look at what would happen in a hospital when a newborn dies after a mother and midwife choose to ignore hospital protocols. Host and veteran medical administrator Dr David Rankin presents a senior NSW Health Ministry medical advisor, Dr Paul Douglas, with this hot-button scenario, in a medical landscape where patients are demanding more say in their care.

Dive into the heart of the matter as they discuss patient autonomy, policy adherence, and the profound impacts such cases can have on medical team members — some of whom will be traumatized, while others are left angry. Gain insights into the crucial role of documentation, and the pursuit of a culture that prioritizes patient well-being.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare, seasoned medical administrator Professor Gavin Frost and host Dr David Rankin discuss the complex scenario of a young, enthusiastic surgeon who is proposing a novel technique for pediatric diabetes management. They discuss the challenges, considerations, and stakeholder involvement necessary for such a venture, from the importance of research and evidence to engaging with various professionals and organizations. Prof. Frost's insights and advice on clinical governance provide a perspective on ensuring the safety and success of innovative medical initiatives, and how they might, or might not, be tackled.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, another senior medical administrator is confronted with a challenging scenario: how to address high hospital-acquired infection rates. Clinical governance veteran Dr David Rankin speaks with Dr Peter Lowthian, who has worked as a Director of Medical Services and who currently serves on the boards of a large private hospital and the Australasian Cardiac Surgery Research Institution.

The two discuss infection issues, particularly focusing on urinary tract infections in orthopedic wards, emphasizing the importance of data accuracy, involving clinicians in data collection, and individualized data feedback to drive accountability and change.

The discussion delves into the complexities of comparing hospitals and promoting behavioural change among healthcare teams, stressing the significance of addressing infections beyond their cost implications, including patient outcomes and reputation. Additionally, it highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to tackle this issue, involving various healthcare disciplines and utilizing data as a coaching tool rather than a policing mechanism.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Safeguarding Healthcare, we take a deep dive into the world of healthcare audits, their benefits, and pitfalls. Clinical governance veteran Dr David Rankin speaks with Brigadier Dr Darrell Duncan, a highly experienced administrator who is currently responsible for reviewing the standards of care provided to members of the Australian Defence Force.

Dr Duncan emphasizes the need to shift from compliance-focused audits to a patient-centric, continuous quality improvement approach. And he highlights the importance of identifying risks through staff engagement and effective communication, fostering a culture of accountability, involving medical staff in the audit process, and fully integrating quality improvements.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let veteran medical administrator Dr David Rankin be your guide through another minefield, as he challenges a senior hospital medical administrator with a staffing situation that threatens to impact patient safety. Dr Rankin explores a complex scenario involving an aging senior surgeon with Professor Alan Sandford AM, the Director of Medical Academic Development – Regional Medical Pathway, Central Queensland & Wide Bay Hospital and Health Services. Explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding aging medical professionals, the duty of care to patients and colleagues, and the delicate balance of maintaining respect while addressing performance concerns. And learn about the strategies for gracefully transitioning senior staff members, while ensuring patient safety.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should administrators do and what’s best for the patient and the hospital when a terrible mistake takes place? In this episode of "Safeguarding Healthcare”, Dr. David Rankin hosts Dr. Helen Parsons, the District Director Medical Services for the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, as they delve into a nightmare scenario – a wrong-site surgery. Learn about the protocols, patient safety, ethics and legal consequences that emerge after a patient suffers from this terrible mistake, and explore necessary immediate actions, the formation of review teams, and the importance of a no-blame culture in preventing recurrences.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.