What is the difference in function between medical board and AHPRA
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is the organisation responsible for the implementation of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme across Australia. AHPRA works with 15 National Health Practitioner Boards in implementing the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme. The Medical and Dental Boards of Australia:
Does a notification mean reprimand?
No. A notification made lead to an investigation of a practitioner and a reprimand is one of the potential outcomes of the investigation. There in fact may be no investigation.
What time frame is reasonable for AHPRA to report their recommendations to the practitioner; what is one's recourse if the notification is spurious?
If a notification leads to an Investigation the time frame can be very lengthy. It depends on the case but investigations can take many months and often longer if the matter is referred to a panel or Independent tribunal. MIPS will endeavour to have all relevant material before AHPRA in a timely way to assist in the progress of the matter. If the notification is from a colleague and on a mandatory reporting basis, and is found to be spurious, AHPRA may consider some disciplinary action of that practitioner.
Most if not all practitioners would find an investigation stressful. What support would MIPS suggest to support a doctor undergoing an investigation that may take months if not longer to reach a conclusion.
That has been our experience. Always keep in close contact with MIPS and or the solicitor appointed. Discuss with a trusted colleague or mentor. There are Doctors Advisory Services, AMA support as well as support services provided by AHPRA. Discuss with your regular GP. MIPS will be providing education on this point Practising under adversity – claims, complaints and investigations in a webinar on 17 Oct and at workshops around Australis in coming months. AHPRA also offers support services on its Website.
I work in remote healthcare in a multidisciplinary team. Are there any risks involved in allowing other healthcare providers to use my Medicare number to order pathology test under organisational guidelines?
We are not sure what is meant by organisational guidelines but in normal circumstances this would not be recommended. There may be exceptions but we would need further information as to what is proposed before giving a definitive response.
In what percentage of cases where the Board proposes an action does the Board reverse the decision upon the practitioner’s response(s)?
We do not have any ongoing statistics for this aspect nor are they provided by the Boards. Our case studies did demonstrate that it is not a fait accompli, and that with considered submissions AHPRA can be persuaded to change initial decisions.
If the Board persists in proceeding with a proposed action despite a practitioner’s argument against it, what is the appeal process?
Practitioners can appeal determination to the Sate and Territory Administrative Appeals Tribunals. If that fails they can then seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court in their jurisdiction.
In the instance where AHPRA de-identify the patient...how is it possible to provide patient notes?
If AHPRA requests the patient records they will advise of the name of the patient. In all other circumstances the name of the complainant is not to be published.