Dear Editor

The issue of using UAPs to perform various medical duties has been debated in the US as well. [Shostek K. Unlicensed Assistive Personnel: Risk Management Considerations. J Healthc Risk Management 1998 Winter;18(1)] The 'role drift' described by M. McKenna is the result of a shortage of professional and licensed caregivers like nurses and technologists with college degrees. The performance of a task (such as phlebotomy) and the understanding of the complexities of anatomy, physiology, and human response to disease are not inseparable with appropriate training and adequate oversight. In light of the need to focus more on patient safety and less on "turf", teamwork in healthcare may be the best approach.