Reporting Outcomes: On Whose Terms?

In this edition, we delve into the incredibly challenging issue of data and transparency in healthcare. For a profession with as many different opinions as there are doctors, nothing is more certain to spark fierce debate than the topic of data and reporting. We have felt considerable trepidation in even deciding to cover this issue, such is the strength of the views. In doing so, we are not seeking to take a position but instead recognise that this is an important issue facing the profession. If there is one simple truth from this topic of discussion, it is this: as doctors, you will all be reported on or reviewed, the only question is ‘on whose terms’? At the moment, it appears that it is going to be entirely on someone else’s terms – be it private health insurers, governments or patients who don’t understand the key elements to the provision of quality care. That seems to be the worst of all outcomes.

We are genuinely interested in the views of members about the best way forward in this space and we want to actively encourage feedback and debate. This is a challenge which requires the collective wisdom of all members and we look forward to that input.

Speaking of challenges, we note with significant concern the intervention of SIRA to review fees for patients injured at work. We meet with SIRA regularly and remain constantly vigilant about attacks on the profession regarding independence and appropriate payments. I was personally involved in the first negotiations to establish the AMA List of Fees as the basis of the schedule for injured workers. It is an essential right for employees injured at work to be able to access specialist GPs or other specialists and we will be fighting for that right.