GMC Defence Barristers Blog

The court again highlighted that dishonesty undermines trust in the medical profession, which is crucial for patient safety and public confidence.

This type of behaviour is seen as particularly serious by regulators and, more often than not, result in the most severe sanctions.

We look at GMC health assessments, what doctors can expect from these assessments, and the value of legal representation.

When faced with a fitness to practise investigation, should health care professionals “wait and see” or does constructive engagement make a difference?

We look specifically at insight and remediation and how both of these can lead to better outcomes for doctors.

What the GMP says about honesty & the consequences for doctors whose fitness to practise is found impaired following allegations of dishonesty?

We look at the criteria the GMC & MPTS decision makers will use to decide if doctors pose a risk to public protection.

At numerous stages in the GMC’s fitness to practise investigation process, the GMC will be legally represented by an experienced solicitor or barrister.

The “realistic prospect” test will apply to allegations & the question whether the facts would demonstrate a practitioner’s fitness to practise is impaired.

Under certain circumstances, the GMC can take into account a doctor’s history even where previous cases resulted in no regulatory action.

The GMC has changed its guidance for allegations of dishonesty and violence that might not impact on public safety. We look at the guidance and the implications for doctors.

GMC fitness to practise investigations and hearing are legalistic and complex. Legal advice is crucially important is agreeing the right strategy to ensure the best outcomes for doctors.

It is important that doctors carefully consider their response when they are notified of a GMC investigation. We look why this is important and what doctors should do.

Your registration is more than just the ability to practise – it is also your career and reputation. Is it worth a gamble?

GMC referrals are unfortunately an occupational hazard for doctors and doctors should expect to be referred to the GMC at some point in their career.

Guidance must not be “slavishly” followed, and regulatory decisions must be made based on the individual merits of the case – High Court.

Understanding the GMC’s fitness to practise investigation process is key to meaningful engagement which, in turn, is key to better outcomes for doctors.