How is the Ombudsman’s Office able to help you?
WITH CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Conflict is a normal part of the human experience. Medical students must handle conflicts especially efficiently, as their time and efforts are devoted to their studies and other responsibilities. They also need to maintain their professionalism whilst they resolve the issue. Conflict resolution goes more swiftly when medical students keep their “cool.”
Conceptualize — What is the conflict I am having? What are my feelings about it?
Openness — Exercise openness towards the other person’s perspective. Often others are focused on their studies, friends, families, and other responsibilities; rarely do they have malicious intent. What are some possibilities for the other person’s perspective?
Options — Moving forward from a conflict could take many forms:
- Was seeing the other person’s perspective enough to resolve the conflict for me?
- Am I able to approach the person respectfully and with openness to another perspective?
- If via email, does my written communication reflect that?
- Could I seek advice from my Academic Advisor or Clinical Mentor?
- Is this a serious matter (such as discrimination, bullying or other violations of the code of conduct)? If so, should I submit a grievance?
- Am I not sure where to turn? Is the Ombudsman available?
Learn — What did this conflict teach me about myself? Looking back, would I have done anything differently?
The Ombudsman is available to help you confidentially at any stage of the conflict resolution process (ombudsman@oum.edu.ws).
(March 2022)
