The allegations highlighted in the program are deeply concerning and underscore the importance of our ongoing work to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and respect in surgical practice across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand and in line with our Code of Conduct and our Surgical Competence and Performance framework.
RACS President Professor Owen Ung has stated, any behaviour that undermines patient safety or perpetuates discrimination or harassment has no place in our profession. While the vast majority of surgeons are dedicated professionals who make a substantial contribution to patients and their communities, we recognise that unacceptable behaviour by a minority can have serious consequences for individuals and for trust in the profession.
When concerns are raised, whether about behaviour, safety or professionalism, RACS acts in line with our complaints procedure and in collaboration with regulators and health services.
Over the past decade, RACS has undertaken significant reform to strengthen culture and accountability across the surgical community. This includes:
- the 2015 Expert Advisory Group (EAG) review, which led to wide-ranging changes to education, workplace culture, and complaints handling.
- mandatory training in professional conduct and cultural safety for all Fellows and Trainees.
- stronger processes for addressing complaints.
While meaningful progress has occurred, we recognise that cultural change is ongoing and requires coordinated effort. RACS has worked with the relevant regulators in the past and is calling on more effective coordination between regulators, employers and the College. We all have a part to play to ensure that the behaviours that the community expects are seen across the medical industry.
We urge anyone with concerns to raise them through appropriate channels, including the relevant health service, Ahpra, or RACS.
Our mission remains clear: to foster a surgical culture built on excellence, integrity and respect, where patient safety and professional accountability are paramount.