Doctors’ Week opens with focus on changing healthcare

The inaugural Doctors’ Week opened on Sunday, with acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Arthur Phillips saying doctors must continue to lead complex patient care as technology, better access to health information and wider multidisciplinary teams reshape healthcare delivery.

The changes could allow doctors to focus more on their expertise, judgement, leadership and management of complex clinical situations rather than diminish their role, he said at a commemorative service at James Street Methodist Church.

“Healthcare will continue to evolve, with technology, greater access to health information and multidisciplinary teams changing how care is delivered,” Dr Phillips said. “Some functions traditionally performed by doctors may increasingly be undertaken by patients or other trained members of the healthcare team.”

Doctors’ Week, organised by the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners (BAMP), runs under the theme Celebrating Excellence. Compassion. Service.

Dr Phillips highlighted the wide-ranging role of doctors, noting that they serve at every level of the health system, from diagnosing and treating illness and providing preventive care to responding to emergencies, leading clinical teams, contributing to policy and research, and mentoring younger healthcare professionals.

He also noted that doctors often reassure and comfort patients and families during difficult moments.

Doctors’ contribution was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when physicians and other healthcare workers worked under extraordinary circumstances, said Dr Phillips.

“They adapted to rapidly changing information, assumed new responsibilities, worked long and difficult hours and, in many instances, made significant personal sacrifices in service to the people of Barbados.

“While the pandemic may have receded from our immediate focus, the dedication, flexibility and resilience demonstrated by our doctors during that period should not be forgotten.”

He also highlighted BAMP’s role in representing the interests and welfare of medical practitioners and serving as a voice on healthcare issues.

“Constructive engagement between the [health] ministry, BAMP and the wider medical community is essential as we work together to strengthen our health system.”

Excellence requires high professional standards and continuous learning as new evidence, treatments and technologies reshape healthcare, he said, but added that technology should not replace the doctor-patient relationship.

“While technology can improve the delivery of care, it cannot replace the human connection between doctor and patient, grounded in empathy, communication and respect,” Phillips said.

Phillips also stressed the importance of mentorship, saying experienced physicians have a role in supporting younger colleagues and sharing clinical knowledge, professionalism, values and judgement developed through years of practice.

He called for continued attention to quality and accountability within healthcare, pointing to the work of the Medical Council and the Advisory and Inspection Committee, as well as accreditation and quality assurance mechanisms.

He also said the well-being of doctors and other healthcare workers must remain part of efforts to strengthen the health system.

“The demands of the medical profession can be considerable, and attention to the well-being of our physicians and their colleagues must remain part of our conversation about strengthening the health system,” he said.

Phillips thanked doctors for their sacrifice, leadership and professionalism and congratulated BAMP on establishing Doctors’ Week.

He said the week should provide opportunities for celebration, reflection, fellowship and a renewed commitment to the profession.

(LG)