UEMO calls for the need to promote safer and healthier working environments for GP’s working in prisons

29/10/2024 News UEMO 9 Views

The European Union of General Practitioners (UEMO) would like to express its support and solidarity with prison doctors in the United Kingdom who have raised concerns regarding their challenging working conditions.

We have been made aware of the significant difficulties faced by healthcare professionals within the prison system, including but not limited to, inadequate staffing levels and limited resources, while delivering care to a complex patient population in a highly restrictive and, at times, hostile environment. General practitioners working in prison in the UK are subject to more scrutiny of their work than any other group of GPs. These conditions can place a substantial strain on the physical and mental well-being of prison doctors, hindering their ability to provide optimal care to their patients.

UEMO stands by the medical community in advocating for fair and humane working conditions, as we believe that a supportive environment is fundamental for healthcare professionals to perform their roles efficiently and compassionately. We are committed to continuing our advocacy efforts and supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and working conditions of all doctors, including those in the prison system.

UEMO recognises the essential role that prison doctors play in safeguarding the health and well-being of some of society’s most vulnerable individuals in all of our member states. It is crucial that their working conditions are improved, and that they are provided with the necessary support and resources to fulfill their duties effectively. In this regard, we strongly urge the relevant authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue with healthcare professionals working in prisons, address their concerns, and implement measures that promote safer and healthier working environments, including:
– The need for governments to ensure appropriate funding for prison healthcare and general practice in prison and to recognise that good prison healthcare is a cost-effective means of improving the health of society as a whole
– The need for employing organisations to recognise the value and skills of GPs working in prison
– A request to organisations responsible for training GPs to promote the role as a career choice in training curricula

We express our gratitude to the prison doctors in the UK and all of our member states for their dedication and professionalism in the face of challenging circumstances. Please know that UEMO is here to support you and to advocate for the improvements you deserve.

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