RCSI decides not to recommend new otolaryngology title

The possibility of recommending a title change to the Medical Council was discussed at last November’s meeting of the RCSI Committee for Surgical Affairs.

The proposed new title for the specialty was to be ‘Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery’. However, following the establishment of a sub-committee last November, the decision has been made not to recommend a change.

“The specialty of otolaryngology, at its branch of UEMS (European Union of Medical Specialties), proposed a change of title to ‘Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery’,” an RCSI spokesperson told the <strong><em>Medical Independent</em></strong> (<strong><em>MI</em></strong>).

“This matter was discussed by RCSI in terms of whether the College could make a recommendation to the Medical Council to consider the proposed change of title.”

The College then formed a small working group to consult with the various surgical specialties.

“Following this consultation, it was agreed that the College would not recommend the proposed new title to the Medical Council and the designation on the Specialist Division of the Register,” continued the spokesperson.

“But the College acknowledged that there is no objection to appropriately-qualified surgeons in referring to themselves as ‘Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeons’ if such a description reflected their areas of practice.

“The College noted that many other specialties, such as OMFS (oral maxillo facial surgery), plastic surgery and orthopaedic surgery also perform procedures in the head and neck region.”

Separately, the RCSI confirmed that it has no plans to change the property use at No 119 St Stephen’s Green from its current use as a restaurant. As was reported in the media in January, the RCSI purchased the building that houses the well-known restaurant Shanahan’s On The Green for a reported sum of close to €5 million.

“The property No 119 St Stephen’s Green adjoins RCSI’s Stephen’s Green campus,” the RCSI spokesperson told <strong><em>MI</em></strong>.

“The property was offered for sale publicly and RCSI, who are committed to stay in its city centre site, believed it strategically prudent to seek to acquire it. Negotiations took place with the receiver and the property was purchased by RCSI in December 2017. The tenant is not affected and will continue to operate the premises as a restaurant.