During their time at the medical school, situations may arise when students feel that they have been mistreated by faculty, physicians, nurses, interns, residents, patients or their colleagues. This is a rare occurrence, but students need to know their rights, responsibilities, and the people to whom they can go for advice and support.
UBC is committed to helping and supporting students who feel they have been mistreated. The “Professional Standards for Faculty Members and Learners in the Faculties of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of British Columbia” is a document that describes the rights and responsibilities of students and those who teach them. If students feel they have been mistreated we strongly encourage them to seek confidential advice and support.
Possible contacts include:
- Dr. Sharon Salloum, Associate Dean of Student Affairs
- Assistant Deans for Student Affairs
- Dr. Janette McMillan, VFMP
- Dr. Darlene Hammell, IMP
- Dr. Ann Neary, NMP
- Dr. Connie Hull, SMP
- Associate Dean, Equity and Professionalism
- Office of the Ombudsperson for Students
Students may be more comfortable addressing their concerns with other trusted faculty in the program, particularly if they have connected with these people in the past.
Concerns presented to The Associate/Assistant Deans will be handled in a confidential manner. Student concerns with respect to mistreatment are treated very seriously, and are considered a priority in the Offices of Equity and Student Affairs.
Students should be confident that the process to address a concern raised by a student will be under their control. Actions will not be taken without student agreement and consent. The principle of ensuring the safety of students and faculty is paramount.
Please access the Associate Dean, Equity and Professionalism’s website to learn more about our commitment to supporting students. This website also describes what constitutes “mistreatment”.
