This study, published in BMJ Open, sought to examine doctors’ experiences of complaints processes in the United Kingdom, including which aspects of the complaints process are most stressful. The researchers conducted a qualitative study based on a cross-sectional survey of members of the British Medical Association. The study found that complaints seriously impact doctors’ psychological well-being and are associated with defensive practice. The most stressful aspects of the complaints process were the prolonged duration and unpredictability of procedures, managerial incompetence, poor communication and perceiving that processes are biased in favor of complainants. Physicians suggested a number of improvements to the complaints system and some felt more support for physicians was needed.