Professionalism at Jefferson Medical College

How to Raise a Concern

Concerns Regarding Fellow Students

Concerns regarding fellow students are always difficult to broach -- however, as future colleagues, it is important that you feel comfortable dealing with these concerns. As is the case in the preclinical years, the more direct approach is preferred -- however, some situations require a more indirect approach.

1. Direct Approach
   The Student PCC always recommends talking to your fellow student directly regarding any concerns you may have about his or her professional behavior first before escalating the situation.
1. If needed, the Student PCC can be available to help mediate such a discussion.
   
   
2. Indirect Approach
   If you feel very uncomfortable approaching your fellow student directly, alternatives are available:
1. Contact the site-specific Clerkship Director (if the issue is very site-specific).
2. Contact the overall Clerkship Director.
3. Contact your Dean in the Office of Student Affairs.
4. Contact the Student PCC.

Concerns Regarding Housestaff (Residents and Attendings)

Concerns regarding fellow students are especially difficult to broach -- particularly since these are the individuals that evaluate you. These situations are new to us, as 3rd and 4th year medical students, and the appropriate course of action is not always clear.

1. Direct Approach
   If you feel comfortable talking directly to the housestaff, you should do so. However, this may be difficult due to the hierarchical nature of medical school.
   
   
2. Indirect Approach
   For concerns dealing with housestaff, you have several options for voicing your concerns:
1. Contact the site-specific Clerkship Director (particularly if it is about the housestaff).
2. Contact the Residency Director (if the concern is about a resident’s actions).
3. Contact the overall Clerkship Director (if the concern is about a program as a whole).
4. Contact your Dean in the Office of Student Affairs.
5. Contact the Student PCC.

Contact Your Student PCC

If you continue to have concerns or are uncertain of what to do, please feel free to contact any member of the PCC or the Student PCC as a whole. Every effort is made to respond quickly and efficiently.