The Medical Protection Society has created a free advice app for doctors to help them handle claims and complaints.
The app, called ‘MPS Advice’, offers advice on how to deal with medicolegal and ethical issues and the society believes it is the first of its kind.
The organisation receives more than 100 calls every week from doctors seeking fast advice on issues from getting a minor’s consent to writing a report.
Dr Nick Clements, head of medical services at MPS, said that as the healthcare landscape is changing, the need for easily accessible advice is growing.
“Doctors often have to manage complex ethical and legal issues. The MPS Advice app has been designed to allow doctors to access relevant support and guidance from their smartphone,” he said.
“We believe this app could help curb the rise in complaints and claims. It is written and regularly updated by experts at MPS and puts our advice and guidance at your fingertips.”
The society has seen an increase in claims against its UK members. A recent survey done by the society showed that 58% of respondents said they had been subject to a complaint, claim or an investigation by the General Medial Council in the past 12 months.
The app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices, includes advice on topics tailored to healthcare professionals in England, Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as more than 300 case reports from the society’s publication ‘Casebook’.
It updates with new material regularly whenever the smartphone or tablet is connected to wi-fi.