Charlie Massey, the Chief Executive of the General Medical Council (GMC) paid a visit to Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital on Monday, 22 May. The visit provided an excellent opportunity for Mr Massey to witness first-hand the exceptional standards of patient care and professionalism that East Lancashire Hospitals Trust consistently upholds.
As the leading regulatory body for doctors in the UK, the General Medical Council plays a crucial role in ensuring the highest standards of medical practice and patient safety.
Mr Massey spent a significant portion of the visit speaking with doctors and support colleagues, gaining insights into the challenges and triumphs they experience in their daily duties. The visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the GMC and the Trust, while fostering a deeper understanding of local healthcare needs, both within the local communities and across the integrated healthcare system.
Jawad Husain, Executive Medical Director commented: “Charlie Massey’s visit to Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital was a remarkable occasion, strengthening the relationship between the GMC and the Trust.
“We were able to showcase our dedication to providing safe, personal and effective patient care and the importance of maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and patient safety, whilst providing the necessary wellbeing support to all professionals.
“We are proud of our alignment with the GMC's mission of upholding professional standards and maintaining public trust in the medical profession.”
In conversations with senior clinical leaders, Mr Massey learned about how the Trust is addressing medical workforce challenges, ensuring effective clinical leadership and revalidation, and their ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. They also discussed the Trust's efforts to encourage a culture of learning, innovation, and collaboration among colleagues.
Mr Massey had the opportunity to meet with colleagues from the Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care Team and Wellbeing Team. He was impressed to learn of the high priority and focus placed on the health and wellbeing of all colleagues working at the Trust.
During his tour of the Emergency Department, Mr Massey witnessed first-hand the commitment and dedication of colleagues in providing patient care. He engaged in meaningful discussions with medical professionals, listening to their perspectives on current practices, advances in medical technology, and the evolving needs of patients.
Charlie Massey, Chief Executive of the General Medical Council, said:
‘My visit to Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital was a hugely valuable opportunity to meet with staff and see the high standards of patient care they provide, despite the huge pressures they face on a daily basis.
‘It was particularly good to see the work the Trust is doing to focus on the health and wellbeing of its staff, which not only improves patient safety but enables it to retain its dedicated staff. The visit to the Trust gave me excellent insight into the challenges it faces, but also a chance to see for myself the excellent work staff are doing to meet the healthcare needs of their patients.’
