The peak body for Australian surgeons is asking medical staff to share their experiences of bullying to so it can build up a better picture of the extent of the problem in the profession.

The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons has sent out a survey on bullying to all college fellows, trainees and graduates, while a hotline has also been set up for staff to anonymously detail any experiences of discrimination or harassment. 

An independent research company is carrying out the survey, which the chair of the College's expert advisory group on bullying Rob Knowles said would enable staff who have been bullied to share their experiences without fear of retribution.

"The more accurate picture we can get, the more definite assistance we can offer the College in how they might tackle it," he said.

Neurosurgeon Caroline Tan, who has spoken of how her career was compromised after reporting a sexual assault she suffered from a colleague, welcomed the move as an important part of the effort to tackle bullying.

It comes as Monash Health continues to investigate senior neurosurgeon Helen Maroulis for allegedly bullying staff.

The Age understands the investigation will include interviews with former trainee surgeon Imogen Ibbett after she went public with allegations of bullying against Dr Maroulis on ABC's Four Corners program.

Dr Ibbett also claimed Monash Health did not want to hear about her experience of bullying when she contacted them to discuss it after she left the hospital.

Written by Craig Butt, Health Reporter With Julia Medew on Canberra Times