Coaching for Doctors

In her article in the British Medical Journal on 17th July 2005 Neeta Manek poses the question, is coaching for Doctors a road to salvation?

Her answer was

'Having completed the programme am I a convert? The answer is a resounding 'yes'. Coaching has the potential to make a considerable impact on doctors in the workplace. It can be an important tool (along with others) to facilitate learning and self-development. It has the potential to improve performance if linked appropriately with good human resources and appraisal practices'

At impact Consulting we were very encouraged by her response, as we have been working with Doctors in the field of coaching for the last ten years. Indeed in a recent career Focus article, the deputy Chief Medical officer, Aidan Halligan highlighted the benefits of coaching for doctors throughout their careers. It gives doctors the time and space to focus on real work and carer issues without interference. This is particularly helpful for new Consultants coming to terms with their roles.

Neeta Manek described the process

'The sessions are in total confidence and as trust develops with the coach, you consider things at a deep and personal level. These are not the sort of issues that most of us would be comfortable discussing with work colleagues. Self-awareness and learning is deep rooted-as opposed to the more superficial you tend to get from discussions in the workplace. By discussing issues openly and spontaneously, coaching helps you to generate ideas and solutions for yourself'

Through the NHS Leadership Centre Coaching programme we are involved in coaching Medical Directors. They have for 2 hour coaching sessions spread over a year, which allows them to work on key issues between the sessions. We do this in conjunction with a 360-degree Leadership Qualities Questionnaire, which was commissioned by the Leadership Centre. We are accredited to give feedback.

We also coach individual General practitioners and Consultants through the Postgraduate Deaneries. This has assisted those who have been having some difficulty as well as those looking to develop more generally within their roles.

Coaching for Doctors is a growth area and we are delighted to be at the forefront of assisting Doctors to achieve their full potential through the coaching process.

Please contact us if your organisation needs help and development