Do the public think medical regulation keep them safe?. (8th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yam, Carrie Ho-kwan; Wong, Eliza Lai-yi; Griffiths, Sian M; Yeoh, Eng-kiong
• Is Part Of: International journal for quality in health care. Volume 30:Number 2(2018:Feb.)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 2017-12-08
• Subjects: medical regulation -- monitoring and assessment mechanism -- lay representation; Medical care -- Quality control -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzx164
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-4505

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To assess public knowledge and expectations of the ways to assess doctors' competence to ensure patient safety. Design setting and participants: Telephone survey of a random sample of 1000 non-institutionalized Hong Kong residents. Measures and results: Only 5% of public were correct that doctors are not required to periodically be assessed, and 9% were correct that the doctors are not required to update knowledge and skills for renewing their license. These results echo international studies showing a low public knowledge of medical regulation. The public overwhelmingly felt a periodic assessment (92%) and requirements for continuous medical education (91%) were important processes for assuring doctors' competence. A high proportion of the public felt that lay representation in the Medical Council was insufficient. Conclusion: There is a significant gap between public expectations and understanding of the existing medical regulation and the actual policies and practices. Despite a lack of public knowledge, the public thought it important to have an ongoing structured monitoring and assessment mechanism to assure doctors' competence. The public also expects a greater involvement in the regulatory processes as members of the Medical Council. There is a need to review and enhance the current regulatory system to meet public expectation and ensure accountability for the privilege and trust granted by the State in professional self-regulation. In the context of our complex health system, a thorough understanding on the dynamic interactions between different institutions and their complementary roles in a meta-regulatory framework is required in assuring patient safety.