Posted on 11/06/2009 3:35:25 AM PST by markomalley
Controversial new European working laws mean all doctors, including surgeons, are allowed to work only 48 hours a week.
Introduced in August they have provoked fierce criticism from surgeons who say that new trainees will struggle to master their complex specialism in such a restricted time.
But the Government insists that having fewer exhausted doctors on wards means that patients are safer.
However, experts writing in the British Medical Journal say that complications and readmissions increase when restrictions are placed on how long surgeons can work, they write in the British Medical Journal.
They highlight recent working hours restrictions in American and say that they had a negative impact on training because surgeons do not have enough time to practise their skills. This was even though doctors in America were still allowed to work almost twice as long as they are now able to in Britain.
John Tarpley and Gretchen Jackson, both from Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in Nashville, warn that limited hours cause “alarming trends” in surgery.
Studies have shown an increase in preventable complications and injuries caused to patients when working hours are restricted, they claim.
They also say there is evidence that surgeons perform fewer complicated procedures to ensure they do not breach their weekly working hours.
(Excerpt) Read more at telegraph.co.uk ...
I can just see it: Dr. walks away from table to go on mandatory coffee break.
I had an extended conversation with a hotel desk clerk recently who is just overjoyed by Obama’s health care reforms.
Her mother worked at the local hospital and has to work overly long hours, as do the other care providers.
This young lady believed wholeheartedly that top-flight health care could be provided to all via reform, increasing the total amount of care given by perhaps 20% or more. Yet the providers would have to work perhaps 20% fewer hours after the reforms come into effect.
20% more care provided in 20% fewer hours.
Interesting theory.
I predict that within 20 years the word ‘freedom’ will be removed from dictionary’s.
I predict that before the end of Obammy's presidency, flying the American flag will be called "divisive."
You’re probably right.
You guys don’t spend any time over at DU or the DailyKos, do you? You will occasionally spot the truth over there - they already think the American flag is a symbol of racism and imperialism. You obviously understand the craziness, it’s just that, like I used to be, you can’t believe it’s as far advanced as it is.
The federal government is as qualified to decide when doctors will work and how much they should be paid as Barack Hussein Obama is qualified to be President of the United States.
People like that smile all the way into the gas chamber.
LLS
Coming to America soon?
That's easy - just "work smarter, not harder", "think out of the box", and "emphasize core competencies".
</rolling eyes>
Don’t forget “eliminate waste and abuse”.
You’re right - how silly of me.
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