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News: Pandemic guidance update

27 November 2009

Updated guidance on good practice during a pandemic has been launched.

Updated GMC guidance for doctors on what constitutes good practice during a pandemic is now available on the GMC website.

Swine flu’s regional impact on UK health services means that while some doctors may be working normally, others may be struggling to cope with the additional workload. Good Medical Practice, responsibilities of doctors in a national pandemic recognises the constraints on time and resources likely in a pandemic, and allows those most affected to work flexibly to provide assistance where it is most needed.

While key responsibilities such as acting with honesty and making patient safety a priority remain unchanged, the guidance lifts some of the usual requirements. For example, doctors are no longer expected to report concerns about resources, equipment or insufficient patient services, other than in exceptional circumstances – as managers will already be aware of the pressures involved.

Doctors should refer to the guidance if they feel their usual way of working is under strain because of the pandemic.

Jane O’Brien, GMC Assistant Director of Standards and Fitness to Practise, said: ‘Doctors are playing a vital role in helping the country deal with a pandemic. Exactly how doctors are deployed during a pandemic will be decided on a local level by employers but we hope that our amended guidance enables doctors to respond responsibly and reasonably to the circumstances they face.’