Hitting the target.
Many patients and relatives do not succeed in getting the action they seek, simply because they miss the 'target'.
Getting action is like archery. If you want to hit a target, you need at least:
- a bow,
- an arrow,
- someone to aim the arrow, and
- importantly 'the target'.
The target is actually the most important thing. Hitting the wrong target or missing the target entirely is a waste of time and energy.
Know and define the target. Make the tip of your arrow sharp. Steady the bow. Compensate for whatever may affect the arrow in transit to its target.
Statement of concerns or complants need to be carefully constructed. These generally need the following wrapped together very neatly:
- Explanation of experience, dissatisfaction or problem.
- Statement of relevant standard against which dissatisfaction is made.
- Quotation of refererence to standard/evidence.
- Assertion of rights referenced in ethical principle or law.
Each head of the above should be arranged in chronological order. There may be several 'heads' of dissatisfaction.
It is worrying that patients and many of their legal advisors - even knowing some of the above do not get the basics right. The Medical Justice Board is here to guide.
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