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Supporting colleagues throughout the extended surgical team

17 November 2021

Dear Colleagues in SCTS,

Supporting colleagues throughout the extended surgical team

The pressure on our health services remains unprecedented following the impact of the pandemic.

Almost every day in our teams and units we are struggling to deliver Cardiothoracic Surgery in a timely manner due to the pressures of demand and workforce issues.

This puts stress on every member of our extended surgical team - allied health professionals, anaesthetists, intensivists, managers, nurses, perfusionists, surgeons, surgical care practitioners, trainees and beyond.

In these challenging times, it is more important than ever that we are kind and respectful to each other. We should all be able to come to work feeling we are supported in the work place and that we can raise issues and concerns.  It goes without saying that we should treat our colleagues as we would want to be treated ourselves.

These challenges will almost certainly apply to all specialties in health care but it is our specialty that has been highlighted in the media recently in several units with regard to professional behaviours. These reports may resonate with colleagues who are working in strained and difficult environments.

It is not right and nor is it acceptable for such a culture to exist among highly intelligent, motivated and caring professionals.  It is also important that we do not tolerate poor interactions and feel able to intervene supportively and constructively.

There are many issues that are beyond our direct control but we do have the gift to support each other and control our own behaviours. Everyone has problems in their home or work environment, but it is important to focus on patient care and staff well-being.

Our specialty, and SCTS, is held in high regard for so many of our endeavours including our example in delivering high quality health care. It is now time we demonstrate our commitment to excellence extends to our behaviours within our teams.

Yours sincerely,

Simon

Simon Kendall
President SCTS
 

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