MEDICAL STAFF FUNCTIONS

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29238, 23 June 1960, Page 21

MEDICAL STAFF FUNCTIONS

“Secret Thanks”

Opposed

Opposition to a proposal that in future farewell functions to visiting medical staff retiring from the North Canterbury Hospital Board's staff be associated with the institutions committee rather than with the board was expressed at yesterday’s meeting of the board. The recommendation was referred back to the committee.

The recommendation followed a request by the medical advisory committee aimed at avoiding publicity prejudicing the officers’ private practices. “I am very sorry to see that thanks to people are going to be handed out in secrecy,” said Mr L. A. Bennett. Words could be properly phrased when doctors left the staff. The word "retired” had been used. He also believed that on being appointed to the staff doctors should be introduced to the board. The recommendation was a retrograde step and was legislating for an individual thinking of himself.

Looking back on his own experience, Mr Bennett said he preferred to meet the board at such a function rather than a committee in a back room. Mr D. Macmillan: We should go into committee if we are going to discuss it. We cannot get down to this unless we get down to personalities. “I endorse the remarks,” said the chairman (Dr. L. C. L. Averill). “I think it would be a pity if farewells were not on board level.” At the last function, the press had respected his request that the word "retired” be not mentioned. The reports said the doctor had completed his service with the board.