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Editorial
25 July 2021
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Dame Clare Marx – exemplary leadership

The news last week that Dame Clare Marx is to step down as Chair of the GMC, due to her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, was a shock to us all. But her letter to the profession was an inspiration: thoughtful, compassionate, courageous and generous towards a profession and workforce she cares for.

Her entire message deserves to be read by everyone leading healthcare teams, organisations, systems and services through and beyond the current pandemic, and warrants amplification outside the bounds of our own health service. Highlighting the NHS as short on time and short on resource, she said “there is no excuse for being short on kindness and politeness”. In describing the events of last year and the impact on doctors who have faced and dealt with “unimaginably sad situations”, she makes what is arguably her most important point:

“In those dark moments, it is the support of our colleagues that pulls us back up. Being able to laugh and cry together, to share our experiences and lean on one another provides the courage to keep going. In a profession that rises or falls on the strength of our teams, dignity and respect for each other is indispensable. So, in addition to compassion for our patients, we must show respect and kindness for colleagues.”

Our statement is dedicated to Dame Clare, her leadership and incredible resolve to improve our profession through greater care.

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