A social worker explains why calling just to talk can make a difference
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President's message
As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of compassion. Not only in the care we provide to our patients, but also in the way we care for ourselves and each other.
Recent media coverage has highlighted the long hours many doctors continue to work, often at great personal cost. While our profession is built on dedication and service, it is also vital to recognise that sustaining our wellbeing is essential to sustaining the quality of care we deliver.
Work-life balance is not a luxury – it’s a necessity.
In this edition, we explore compassion in regulation, the value of seeking support (even if it’s just to talk), and how music can be a powerful tool for wellbeing. These stories remind us that caring for ourselves is inseparable from caring for our communities.
I also want to acknowledge those colleagues who will be working through the festive season to ensure medical care continues uninterrupted. Your commitment is seen and deeply appreciated. For those taking a well-earned break, I encourage you to use this time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with family, friends, and with yourself.
As we step into 2026, may we carry forward a renewed commitment to compassion: for our patients, for our colleagues, and for ourselves.
Dr Liz Tompsett
President
Medical Council of NSW
Podcast: Finding your voice and recognising your needs
L-R: Veronica Payne, Liz Lecoanet, Penelope Elix
Our host, Dr Penelope Elix, explores what it really means to stay grounded and keep compassion alive when the job takes so much out of you. She’s joined by Dr Veronica Payne, an anaesthetist and member of the Medical Council of NSW and Liz Lecoanet, who leads the Sydney Local Health District MDOK All staff singing for health.
Together they share their thoughts on wellbeing, knowing when they're in need of some self-care and why singing is good for everyone.
As Liz says, "If you're breathing, you can sing".
Compassion in medical regulation
As a regulator we understand why our processes and decisions might seem remote, but behind every decision is a team of people who genuinely care. Our legal obligation is to protect public safety, and we can do this with empathy, both for those who make complaints and those who receive them.
Seeking support: you don't have to wait
How does it feel to receive a complaint? This article explores those moments, breaks down misconceptions, and shares valuable advice from those who provide emotional support to doctors. It’s a reminder that reaching out for help is not only okay, it’s essential.
Annual report wrap-up
We are wrapping up 2025 with a breakdown of medical complaints activity in NSW over the past financial year. These figures provide a clear picture of the Medical Council’s work and our key areas of focus.
Our closure dates
The Medical Council, along with all NSW health professional councils and the Health Professional Councils Authority, will be closed from Monday 22 December. We will reopen on Monday 12 January.
News bites
AI Guidance
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has developed new resources for health professionals. These provide practical guidance on using AI technologies safely and responsibly when providing care. These include:
Prescribing framework updated to address evolving healthcare needs
The third edition of the National Prescribing Competencies Framework is available on the Ahpra website. It describes the competencies and expectations for appropriate, safe, and effective prescribing across relevant health professions.
Connect with us on LinkedIn
Our LinkedIn page is an easy way to keep updated on the latest regulatory news and information from the NSW Medical Council in between our quarterly newsletters. Connect with our community of doctors, educators, health regulators and thought leaders.
Let's connect
A message from the Pharmaceutical Services Unit
Over the holiday season, patients may seek prescriptions from unfamiliar doctors. Take extra care with high‑risk medicines such as opioids and benzodiazepines. It’s important to:
- confirm the clinical need
- check SafeScript NSW or contact the patient’s usual prescriber
- prescribe only appropriate doses and quantities, and
- document your rationale.
If in doubt, contact the Drug and Alcohol Specialist Advisory Service (DASAS), a free 24/7 specialist advisory service.
More information is available on the NSW Health website.
