Importance of Speaking Out On Patient Care

The Importance of Speaking Out on Patient Care
Patient Advocacy at Work, in the Communities and with Politicians

 

News of the victory on stopping the “gag order” spread throughout the membership of Doctors Council SEIU.  Members who work elsewhere were excited about the victory protecting the ability of doctors to speak out on patient care.

One such member is Dr. Carol McLean-Long who works for Columbia University at Harlem Hospital.  Dr. Long is the HIV Medical Chief and has worked in Harlem Hospital and its satellite facilities for nearly 15 years.

“I have seen how our HIV services have improved the quality of care for our patients and we have been innovative in counseling and testing to help our community know their status.  I am proud of this,” notes Dr. Long.  “Equally important to me as a doctor is speaking out in the community and to politicians, and if need be – the media.  I was glad to learn that we protected the rights of doctors to speak to the media about patient care.  I don’t work in the Department of Health, but I support my colleagues and fellow union members’ rights.  Their battle is mine and I am there for them as I know they would be for me.”

Dr. Long has represented Harlem Hospital on the Murid Islamic Community in America radio program.  She and her colleagues are working with the Murid Islamic Community in America, a local Senegalese radio program, to provide information to the community on the services provided.

“I have also taken part in political events as well,” Dr. Long states.  “I have joined with New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, who

Dr.  Long at City Council speakers press conference on women's health issues

used to chair the Health Committee, to urge more women to get mammograms. When a number of doctors a few years ago where I work were faced with layoffs and a reduction in patient services being delivered, we went to our elected leaders and community groups, and working together we were able to stop the layoffs and protect the funding for the services.  As doctors, to do our jobs effectively anymore and to advocate for patient care, we have to be involved in our union and we have to be involved with our communities and politicians.  This is why I signed up for our COPE program through which we will hold our elected leaders accountable to support our rights and to do the right thing for our patients and healthcare.  I also have taken part in my Patient Care Committee at work and seen how that can be successful in addressing patient care issues with administration where we work.  As doctors, we have to be involved at work, in the communities and in politics to protect our jobs and to protect patient care.”