Dental defence specialist MDDUS has called on the General Dental Council (GDC) to redouble its commitment to reduce the existing backlog in the case examiners process.
Delays in concluding the case examiners’ consideration of allegations brought against registrants is a recognised cause of stress and anxiety amongst dentists and new data from the GDC shows that currently only 55% of cases complete investigation within six months.
Rachael Bell, head of dental at MDDUS, said: “We are pleased to see an increase in the number of cases closing with no action and the 15% decrease in cases referred to full practice committee hearings – however the GDC must not sit on its laurels.
“Urgent attention is needed to address the backlog in the case examiners process as the GDC’s own data shows that only 55% of cases completing investigation within the regulator’s own target of six months.
“The GDC needs to be bolder at case closures given that, of those that passed case examiner stage, more than a third closed without action.
“Any and all measures put in place to minimise the impact of concerns raised with the GDC on the health and wellbeing of registrants has to be a priority.”
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 56,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Lisa Walker, communications manager, on lwalker@mddus.com or 07976 886552.
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