New hotline for SA Health staff to report bullying, harassment.

A new SA Health hotline has been set-up so staff can report bullying, disrespectful and unethical behaviour — it follows AMA president Chris Moy saying the organisation was “rotting from the head”.

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SA Health has set up a new hotline for staff to report bullying, harassment, unethical and disrespectful behaviour.

SA Health chief executive Dr Chris McGowan said the new service will allow staff to confidentially raise concerns and complaints.

“Feeling safe, valued and respected in our work environment is crucial — not only for an effective workplace — but a happy and healthy one,” Dr McGowan said.

“Any behaviour that impacts on the mental or physical health of our staff, including intimidation, sexual harassment, intentional violence or workplace bullying, will not be tolerated.

“We are committed to ensuring our staff feel supported while at work, so they can continue to provide the very best care for all South Australians.”

The hotline is being managed by an independent external provider.

A similar hotline was established specifically for Central Adelaide Local Health Network staff in November last year.

Dr McGowan said expanding the hotline across SA Health will give all staff the opportunity to raise their concerns in a confidential environment.

“Since its inception, there have been 148 calls made by staff within CALHN who have confidentially reported, in good faith, suspected misconduct or inappropriate behaviours to an independent organisation,” he said.

“Action has already been taken, where appropriate, to respond to those concerns within CALHN.

“All staff have the right to feel comfortable at work and we want to empower our clinicians and staff with the right tools so they can make the best decisions for themselves, and for their patients.”

Earlier this month Australian Medical Association president Dr Chris Moy told a parliamentary committee a toxic culture of bullying had been allowed to fester within SA Health, particularly at the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

He said it was driven by factors including fatigue and a tradition of senior doctors taking a hard line on junior doctors on the basis that “teaching by humiliation works and there is a need to harden up junior doctors.”