While the use of mediation for conflict resolution is gaining strength in a number of industries, it is also expected to prompt hospitals to explore an expanded use of mediation to manage conflict in the healthcare setting.
Mediation is a tool which might prevent disruptive behavior among: management and staff, all levels of clinical staff, vendors and hospital staff, governing board members; and patients and staff to name a few. An outside, neutral licenced mediator can be contracted on a contingency/as-needed basis. by the actors of health sector.
Conflict occurs at many levels in the health care context. The Just & Fair Mediation Centre has experience addressing conflict at each level, such as interpersonal and organizational conflict within senior medical leadership teams, designing systems for resolving disputes in the clinical context, and addressing cultural and organizational facilitators of interprofessional conflict (such as that between nurses and residents). Often our clients not only want to resolve the specific dispute, but are looking to leverage the Just & Fair Mediation Centre’s expertise to improve their organizational and staff capacity to manage future conflicts.
The Just & Fair Mediation Centre has years of experience mediating medical malpractice cases. We have long been persuaded that mediation can be a very effective method for resolving medical malpractice suits. Mediation allows for quicker resolution, bringing closure to a situation which is often painful for all involved. In addition, the mediation process is generally less intimidating, allowing more meaningful participation by the parties.
Litigants frequently identify “not feeling heard” as one of the key motivations for filing malpractice claims; those who feel that they have an opportunity to speak and be heard are often more likely to agree to a settlement. We believe that mediation may also encourage exploration of creative resolutions beyond the negotiation of a monetary figure. Litigants often cite as a motivation that their actions will help to assure that “this never happens again” — mediation is well-suited to pursuing more creative options. For those cases in which it might make sense to have the matter decided by a neutral third party, mediation can be an excellent alternative.
Medical Mediation offers an alternative way of resolving medical conflicts. The basis of mediation is that it is confidential and voluntary. As mediators we do not take sides. We are there as supportive listeners. We provide a safe environment for all sides to speak without being judged.
We help parties of dispute to:
- Restore trust and good communication
- Understand the key issues and what can realistically be achieved
- Agree a way forward that everyone can accept
- Focus on the person being cared for and make sure their wishes and views are heard or represented
- Avoid the conflict escalating further
We work independently of any hospital or healthcare organisation. Mediation will take place once everyone is willing to take part. Before the mediation we will contact you to agree a convenient time to meet, discuss what mediation involves and talk to you about the disagreement. Mediation is a flexible process so the number and length of meetings will vary from case to case.