Dear Editor
We read with interest the ‘new normal’ article pertaining to doctors working from home. Although there are clear benefits this enthusiastic portrayal has not considered some of the unforeseen consequences.
Soldiers in the trenches first and foremost fight for each not for King and country. They are in the trench together. This ‘esprit de corps’ is not possible if you are not present on the ward or physically not available. For some time, it would appear that the modern NHS has been engaged in the degradation of the firm.
Juniors need real help with putting a difficult cannula in! Job plans rarely capture all the unforeseen work that occurs in an acute secondary care environment (and we suspect the same in primary care). The presence of consultants on the wards allows moral, physical and clinical support for juniors, nurses and allied healthcare professionals. This camaraderie is essential to the well being of the staff in the NHS. It’s what got us through working during the pandemic in the first place!
Most of all what is now needed from senior doctors in this post-pandemic era is compassionate leadership (1) – We struggle to believe that this can be achieved when working from home. Once more unto the screen dear friends does not quite have the same rousing appeal!
1. https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/publications/what-is-compassionate-leadership
Once more unto the screen dear friends!