A local health district in Australia has apologised after a leaked email reportedly referred to junior doctors as a “workforce of clinical marshmallows”.
The email is believed to have been sent by a human resources official at John Hunter Hospital in New South Wales, in response to a workplace issue, Australia’s ABC News reported.
It is not clear what the precise issue was, but appeared to be over rotas.
The message said: “Seriously! I wonder if any of them realise that they are a doctor and that this is what happens. Oh that’s right … I forgot. Life style [sic] before career.
“God help us in the future. We are going to have a workforce of clinical marshmallows!”
The message was criticised as “tone-deaf” by the Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation, a trade union representing salaried doctors, according to ABC.
Tom Morrison, junior vice president of the union, who is also a junior doctor in Sydney, said: “I think it’s disappointing to say that that culture and that attitude exists in medical administration.
“The system is short-staffed and the system is underfunded, and there’s only so much individuals can do.”
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The Hunter New England Local Health District, which manages the hospital in question, told ABC: “Junior medical officers are a vital part of our health service, and we sincerely apologise for the hurt and frustration caused by a recent email that was circulated.
“We are committed to fostering a workplace where junior medical officers feel valued and respected.”
The John Hunter Hospital is the leading health facility in the city of Newcastle, the New South Wales government website states.
Sky News has contacted the Hunter New England Local Health District and the Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation for comment.
