Responding to a recent article on the role of women in the NHS workforce, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh commented:
"The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh hopes that the deliberately provocative views in the recent article on the role of women in the medical workforce will be seen for what they are: outdated and a huge disservice to all those working in the NHS, male and female.
"In recent years there has been a significant positive change in the shape of the medical workforce. The NHS needs to respond to this by increasing the opportunities to work and train flexibly. The RCPE recognises that there are workforce issues that need to be addressed but this requires a more structured debate to develop sustainable solutions. We must recognise that the evolution of the medical workforce has been a positive step forward for the NHS and diversity and flexibility must be encouraged.
"The strike action taken last week by junior doctors in England has nothing to do with “sex” and everything to do with creating a fair contract for junior doctors reflective of the hard work they do to ensure the best possible patient care. This was evident in the large numbers of junior doctors who took part in the action and were supported by their colleagues from across the medical profession, regardless of their gender or any other demographic for that matter.
"Apportioning blame to one section of the workforce is neither right nor constructive. There are extensive challenges in the NHS, particularly in terms of recruitment and retention, and morale is at an all-time low for many. A more positive approach is required to value – rather than alienate - the role of doctors in training and beyond.
"It is not just the medical workforce that has seen a shift towards more flexible working. Reasons for working less than full time are varied and certainly not exclusive to women. Flexible working enables doctors to undertake essential clinical and academic research, and provide training for the next generation of doctors, as well as balancing family and personal commitments. Only a constructive response to the changing workforce will deliver the NHS that we all rely upon."
Signed on behalf of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh’s Trainees and Members’ Committee
Prof Derek Bell, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Dr Katherine Walesby (Chair)
Dr David Ripley (Vice-Chair)
Dr Sarah-Jane Emerson (Co-Vice-Chair)
Dr Marcus Lyall (Co-Vice-Chair)
Dr Manjit Cartlidge (Vice-Chair)
