Statement on equality and the medical profession

February 2007

The BMA is committed to the elimination of unlawful discrimination and the removal of barriers to career progression throughout the medical profession. This is supported by the BMA's equal opportunities policy statement [go to the document here], as well as through the publication of reports relating to equal opportunities, including:

The BMA supports the principles and values of medical professionalism as defined for doctors in Good Medical Practice 2006 [read more about this]:

"Decisions about access to medical care: You must treat your patients with respect whatever their life choices and beliefs. You must not unfairly discriminate against them by allowing your personal views* to affect adversely your professional relationship with them or the treatment you provide or arrange. You should challenge colleagues if their behaviour does not comply with this guidance.

Respect for Colleagues: You must treat your colleagues fairly and with respect. You must not bully or harass them, or unfairly discriminate against them by allowing your personal views* to affect adversely your professional relationship with them. You should challenge colleagues if their behaviour does not comply with this guidance.

*This includes your views about a patient's age, colour, culture, disability, ethnic or national origin, gender, lifestyle, marital or parental status, race, religion or beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, or social or economic status."


Furthermore, the equal opportunities committee confirmed at its meeting on 8 November 2006, that it is unacceptable for a doctor to express discriminating or culturally offensive views whether within or outside their working life. This includes the act of publishing such comments in printed media, on websites or web forums, and in list-server discussions. Such action could be regarded as bringing the profession into disrepute. Failure to follow guidance set out in Good Medical Practice could put a doctors' registration at risk.

The EOC is working towards a healthcare system which embraces the principles of human rights and equality in relation to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion and belief, age, disability, and within which individuals are enabled to access education, jobs, goods and services on an equal basis. We believe that such a system must strive to promote, protect and demonstrably improve the health of the community served; reduce health inequalities for patients and service users; and deliver working environments that are fair and free of discrimination.

© British Medical Association 2008

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