02 September 2024
HELP! I have a Notification from AHPRA!!
At ADAVB we often receive calls from members who have received a notification from AHPRA. Receiving a complaint from patients can be confronting and distressing but a complaint from AHPRA adds another layer of concern and that is the anxiety associated with the loss of reputation, income or career. The main question and concern members have for the CROs is: Can I lose my registration?
The majority of complaints AHPRA investigates result in no further action. However, we all understand that things can go wrong and when a complaint to AHPRA is upheld then conditions and education requirements may need to be satisfied. It is usually only in very serious circumstances or continually repeating offenders that AHPRA takes immediate action or suspends practitioners.
Recently AHPRA and some of the National Boards held a symposium to discuss the impact of complaints on practitioner wellbeing. The Community Relations Manager attended as a representative of ADAVB and spoke to the issues we find members face. These issues were shared experiences across the board by most health practitioners. One of the most effective tools to combat the stress of a notification is to provide clear information and transparency about the notification process. AHPRA is endeavouring to address the issues which were identified at this symposium, and they were: how the regulatory system operates, what to expect if a notification is received and the attempt to reduce the timeframes for dealing with notifications. Further information on the recommendations can be found on the AHPRA website at ahpra.gov.au/Notifications/Has-a-concern-been-raised-about-you/Improving-the-notifications-experience.aspx
The CROs are experienced in dealing with AHPRA notifications and can guide you through the process. If you are ADAVB member and are Insured with Guild, and you receive an AHPRA notification then please ring CRO service and talk with us. If you are with another insurer, then please ring them and discuss the complaint.
There are also trained professionals you can talk to if you are experiencing anxiety and stress in your life/
Telus Health – Counselling Service (available to ADAVB members) Appts/Phone Counselling 24/7 1300361008
AHPRA website has a link to national independent support service for all practitioners, students, employers, educators and family and friends as well 24/7 access 1800 377 700.
www.ahpra.gov.au/Notifications/Support-services.aspx
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- The Essential Network (Black Dog Institute)
- Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
Dr Ann Monteith BDSc (Melb) FICD Community Relations Officer/Professional Consultant
Dr Ann Monteith has worked in private practice as well as a teacher and examinor at the University of Melbourne and Latrobe University. She has been a CRO for the past 14 years and is available on Mondays and Wednesdays to provide advice and resources to ADAVB members and their staff.
