The Responsibilities of Consultants in Psychiatry within the National Health Service

The responsibilities of a Consultant Psychiatrist are similar to those of other consultants within the National Health Service. The few differences arise from the special circumstances within the specialty, particularly relationships with other disciplines. The ability of Consultants to accept medical responsibility rests on their training, qualifications and statutory responsibility. Medical qualifications carry professional, ethical and legal responsibilities. These responsibilities are exercised towards and given by the public; are aimed at the cure or alleviation of human suffering; are independent of remuneration; and follow the medical practitioner wherever he may be, even within his private life.