SP5.02 The ILIACS Study (Impact of Litigations and Complaints on Surgeons): A review of personal, professional, psychological and financial consequences of increasing litigations and complaints on surgeons within the NHS

Aims The NHS is facing an increasingly litigious environment. Current literature largely focuses on the financial impact of litigation. The study aimed to investigate the psychological, professional and social impacts of complaints, litigations and enquiries on surgeons and the role of the GMC and Defence organisations Methods A steering committee comprising of surgeons and ex-BMA representatives helped formulate a questionnaire for a national anonymous survey assessing the overall impact on surgeons. The study was approved by the ethics committee of the ASGBI. The questionnaire (31 questions) was forwarded to surgeons via direct emails, social media platforms and the surgical associations. Results 291 surgical clinicians responded. 222 (76.29%) were Consultants.73% had qualified 16 years and above, 75% had answered complaints, 45.5% had faced litigations. 20 had faced disciplinary proceedings while 5 reported suspension. 49% changed their clinical practice. 73% reported impact on mental health. 56% reported an impact on their personal life. Almost 50% found that the colleague support was poor. 13.5% reported an increase in the defence organisations premium. In a multiple choice question, GMC was felt to be punitive, indifferent, harsh, racially biased with a culture of guilty unless proven otherwise. Only 9.4% felt it was fair. 85% felt that medicolegal should be part of mandatory training. Conclusion Complaints, litigations and proceedings have a significant impact on the personal and professional lives of surgeons including mental health. There is less than optimal support from colleagues, defence bodies and the GMC. Basic medicolegal teaching should become part of mandatory training.