FSEM Launches Updated Professional Code
The Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine (FSEM) UK has launched a new version of its Professional Code. Designed for use by Fellows and Members of the FSEM, this important guide is also relevant to any doctor working in Sport and Exercise Medicine (SEM) or looking after a sports team at any level.
The code informs the public and athletes that the best interest of the individual athlete will always be paramount should they receive medical care from a Fellow or Member of the Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine UK.
The code maps the duties and responsibilities of a doctor working in SEM, particularly in team care, with the general duties and responsibilities of a doctor in the General Medical Council’s Good Medical Practice. The code also covers areas of practice relevant to the treatment of sportsmen and sportswomen, particularly elite athletes; such as the provision of indemnity, a code of practice when accompanying teams abroad, media coverage, dual responsibility to sportspersons and clubs and anti-doping.
President of the Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Dr Paul D Jackson, comments: “Doctors working in sport, particularly elite sport, can sometimes face unique challenges when providing medical care for an individual or a team. The second edition of the FSEM Professional Code is designed for use alongside the GMC’s Good Medical Practice; it is an important part of the FSEMs remit to set standards for doctors working in Sport and Exercise Medicine and is applicable to all doctors working in sport.”
The FSEM has also updated its statement on performance enhancing drugs in sport.