Things not to say to women doctors and things to say - for patients and the public
Women doctors have the knowledge, skills and experience to do the job. They should be treated like professionals. Do not say the first thing that comes into your head. Say what is needed to get the doctor’s opinion or advice. Please treat each person with respect. Avoid personal remarks and focus on your health. Different places need different ways of speaking. You would not make jokes at airport security that would cause a security alert.
Click here to download the below table as a PDF
Patients/relatives Don’t say: | Patients/relatives Do say: |
- You have a nice bottom - You can examine me anytime, ha ha! |
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Please also: don’t stare, don’t touch |
Things not to say to women doctors and things to say - for other staff and supervisors
How we interact with co-workers creates the culture within the NHS.
Click here to download the below table as a PDF
Other staff Don’t say: | Other staff Do say: |
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Supervisors Don’t say: | Supervisors Do say: |
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Supervisors be aware:
· Set clear goals. If something goes wrong, give feedback on the task. Explain why things might need improvement.
· Both men and women can now request to train flexibly or part-time in any specialty for any well-founded individual reason
· Shared Parental Leave is at enhanced rates for resident doctors (so the father or second parent can look after their child).