This site uses cookies to bring you the best experience. Find out more
Skip to main content

Publications & Surveys

Publications

Download position statements below

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, representing around 10,000 Fellows and Members in England, and the Federation of Specialty Surgical Associations deplore the situation that has arisen over the terms and conditions for doctors in training in England. We call on all parties involved in the discussion about terms and conditions to meet as a matter of urgency to resolve the current impasse. The patients of the United Kingdom are best served by ensuring that all healthcare staff are able to work in conditions that are conducive to providing the best care. Failure to resolve this situation will have implications for recruitment and retention to the NHS.   We fully support our colleagues in training at this very difficult time”.

FSSA Position Statement on ‘Individual Surgeons’ Outcomes Publication’ October 2014

In response to the publication on 19 November 2014 of the Consultant Outcomes Data, John MacFie President of the Federation of Surgical Specialty Associations (FSSA), warns:

The publication today of individual surgeons’ performance data is crude and can be misleading, and does not include essential information such as duration of hospital stay and returns to theatre. There is now good anecdotal evidence that shows publishing this data has encouraged risk averse behaviour, which is not in the interest of patients. I believe that the data should only be published after any concerns in a surgeon’s performance have been investigated.

He also raises concerns about using low volumes of data, difficulties with case mix, risk adjustment and the accuracy of data collection.

In reality very few deaths can be attributed to surgical error alone, and this data only attracts attention away from institutional failings. Put simply, hospitals should not be allowing surgeons to practise unless they can demonstrate their practice is safe.

Further Information / Comments Sian Evans on 020 8674 8921 / 07752 414433

 

The FSSA supports the Surgical Forum’s publication of ‘The Future of the District General Hospital’. The Surgical Forum publications referenced within the Report are available below:

The FSSA supports the Surgical Forum’s document on ‘The Shape of Training: securing the future of patient care’

 


Surveys

Upcoming Events

Latest News