Medical students at TCU's Burnett School of Medicine are embarking on a remarkable journey with unique training. This training is set to empower them to take action during medical misconduct incidents. The program, brought to them by Heroes Active Bystandership, aims to give healthcare professionals and medical students the confidence and skills to report misconduct in hospital settings. Heroes For Healthcare, a new medical-focused version of peer intervention training, was launched in 2014 to address police misconduct. After the tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, they expanded their reach by launching a nationwide program to teach police officers how to intervene in misconduct. Now, they are taking this peer intervention training into healthcare by collaborating with the Burnett School of Medicine at TCU to create a new nationwide certification program. This program will train healthcare professionals and medical students to identify and address misconduct, prevent mistakes, and promote the well-being of both patients and healthcare professionals.

Importance of Safety Culture in Medicine

In medicine, safety culture holds great significance. When it comes to technical procedures like surgeries or inserting IV lines, safety protocols are meticulously built. However, when it comes to discussions about misconduct and how to handle such situations, there are often no established safety protocols. These discussions are crucial as they can have a profound impact on patient care and the well-being of healthcare professionals. Dr. Amit Singh, director of physician communication at the Burnett School of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of addressing this gap.By having a safety culture in place, healthcare institutions can create an environment where misconduct is less likely to occur and where healthcare professionals feel empowered to speak up. This training program is a step in the right direction towards achieving that goal.

Evidence-Based Interventions in Pilot Program

In the pilot program training, medical students were exposed to evidence-based ways to intervene and implement solutions. These interventions can lead to increased patient safety, reduced mistakes and misconduct, and improved overall wellness. Through group activities that involved role-playing based on real-life cases of healthcare provider misconduct, students gained practical experience and insights. They learned how to identify warning signs, communicate effectively, and take appropriate actions to address misconduct. This hands-on training is preparing them to be proactive in preventing harm and saving lives.For example, students learned how to approach a situation with empathy and understanding while still maintaining professional boundaries. They also learned how to gather evidence and document incidents properly, which is essential for effective reporting and follow-up.

First in the US to Receive Certified Training

Some of the medical students at the Burnett School of Medicine are on the forefront of a significant development. They are set to become some of the first in the United States to receive certified Heroes For Healthcare training. This training will officially begin in 2025, and it holds great promise for the future of healthcare. By being trained in this specialized program, these students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in healthcare settings.They will be able to identify misconduct early on and take immediate action to prevent it from escalating. This not only benefits patients but also helps to protect the careers and well-being of healthcare professionals. The certification will give them a competitive edge and open up new opportunities for them in the field of healthcare.

Third-year Medical Student's Perspective

Third-year medical student Simar Goyal recognizes the value of this training. "I really think this training will come to use because we always deal with difficult situations when you're dealing with a life-or-death situation. So, I'm glad about this training," said Goyal. For medical students like Goyal, this training is not just a theoretical concept but a practical tool that they can apply in their future careers.It gives them the confidence to stand up against misconduct and take action when needed. It also helps them to develop a sense of responsibility and accountability towards their patients and colleagues. This training will undoubtedly shape their approach to healthcare and make them better prepared to handle the challenges they will face.