THE BMA has written to members stating that it is pressing UK governments to ensure supply of personal protective equipment [PPE] for both hospitals and general practice across the UK to protect doctors working amidst the coronavirus outbreak.
BMA council chair Chaand Nagpaul said: “We will all be naturally worried about how this will impact on our ability to provide vital care for patients…We are also concerned about the need for healthcare workers to be protected from exposure so that we are able to work as safely and effectively as possible throughout the duration of this crisis.”
The BMA is also seeking a commitment on “rapid testing of doctors and other health professionals who are self-isolating due to minor respiratory symptoms, so that those who are covid-19 negative and recover sooner than seven days can return to work.”
Nagpaul added: “We are compiling a list of contractual issues affecting doctors in all branches of practices, which we will call upon relevant authorities in each nation to address,”
The BMA is also concerned that GMC shows flexibility in regard to annual appraisals and revalidation and to “ensure those ultimately tasked with working outside their normal scope of practice can do so without fear of regulatory reprisals and to do all it can to allow students and trainees to progress through training.”
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
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