The M.C.A.T. Journey

Finally we are up and running! It wasn't a smooth journey. I had to overcome many technical difficulties in constructing this blog; however, whilst some of the technical difficulties and glitches were substantial, it is the human and the social aspects which were the most challenging. Some of the challenges I faced and had to overcome:

• Discouragement: Sometimes I felt: "What's the point?" But thanks to some of my colleagues, who kept encouraging me not to give up.
  
• Intimidation: Yes some have attempted to intimidate me; sometimes subtly, other times quite bluntly
  
• Scoffing: Ridiculing and scoffing at my efforts
  
• Paying the Price: Indeed I paid a price. I was sternly reprimanded for establishing M.C.A.T.
  

 As time goes on, I'll share all the above experiences, which illustrate how difficult it is to break through the hard crust of mediocrity that has spread throughout many layers Medicare Australia's management, which employs punishment as the predominant way of exerting pressure and exercising control over the subordinates, and "sucking up to the superiors" – as one of the aspiring coaches once so eloquently and descriptively put it – as a sure way to gain promotion.

Despite the sweet proclamations of being approachable, the upper echelon has surrounded itself with gatekeepers whose purpose and mandate is to isolate and "protect" their masters from the working class, and filter out anything that may challenge the bosses, including workers' concerns, prejudices, and unfair treatment of employees. This has led to antagonism not only between various levels of employees but also within teams.

With few exceptions, coaches and the supervisors rarely listen; they rather prefer to use outdated, crude and manipulative tactics as means to control the subordinates. But I have had enough of such practices. I do not care for the grand slogans which serve no other purpose but to white wash the fundamental problems, as well as spread the blame unto the front line workers. I won't stand for such practices any longer. I won't allow to be pushed around and then be ignored. It's time to stand up and speak out against the injustices, recriminations and manipulations. Join me in speaking out for our rights and against the shameless practices. M.C.A.T. Is an open and a safe forum to voice your concerns and share your experiences.