KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has voiced alarm over what it describes as a toxic work culture in public health care facilities, highlighting concerns regarding patient safety and the wellbeing of health care workers.
Its president Dr Azizan Abdul Aziz said in a statement that the association was still receiving reports about bullying among health care professionals and plans to present the matter to the Health Ministry (MOH) for further action.
According to the statement, reports from various sources within the public health care sector confirm that bullying was occurring at different levels, from heads of department (HODs) and specialists to medical officers, housemen, and other healthcare workers.
Such a toxic environment, according to the MMA, prevents affected health care workers from performing at their optimal capacity, ultimately jeopardising the quality of patient care.
The association emphasised the urgent need for MOH to address this issue and eradicate this toxic work culture that has become entrenched in the system.
Dr Azizan said every health care worker should feel safe and respected when performing their duties.
"In the best interest of patients, all public health care workers should be free to express their concerns without fear," he remarked.
The association expressed alarm over reports regarding specialists, particularly those who haven't achieved National Specialist Register status, being subjected to undue pressure in a toxic work environment.
This trend, the MMA warns, can significantly diminish the quality of care and may result in a talent drain if not addressed promptly.
To counteract the bullying issue and enhance the working environment in public health care, the MMA has recommended several measures.
First is to have a holistic and anonymous feedback mechanism, which would provide a channel for healthcare professionals to report incidents of bullying, harassment, or other concerns impacting workplace wellbeing.
Second is the role of HODs as they should ensure a conducive work environment and act against toxic behaviours, with an anonymous reporting system in cases where the HOD is the issue.
Dr Azizan said the third measure is to have direct communication channels.
The MMA suggested a re-evaluation of the traditional hierarchy and proposed open, direct communication and feedback as essential for institutional improvement.
The MMA also suggested mental health support to address the high-stress nature of medical professions.
She said the MMA advocated for the implementation of mental health support systems and regular counselling.
The fifth proposal is to have legal measures in place.
The MMA said a revision of the existing Medical Act and regulations was needed to facilitate immediate action against offenders, regardless of their rank or position.
Dr Azizan said it was a collective responsibility to transform the work culture to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both patients and health care providers.
“We must, together, send a strong and clear message that any form of bullying will not be tolerated,” she added. — The Vibes, September 15, 2023
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