Every death that occurs during a fitness to practise (FtP) investigation is one too many.
The recent GDC report on dental professionals who have died while FtP concerns were investigated goes some way to acknowledging the impact they can have on health and wellbeing.
However, there are other lifechanging health impacts of the process that need taken into account.
As a mutual defence organisation, we know that FtP investigations can take a heavy toll on dental professionals. We have long been advocating on their behalf for reform of the GDC.
We recognise that regulators exist to protect patients, but they must also be fair and proportionate. Long delays in investigations, alongside the disturbing evidence that FtP cases are disproportionately made against professionals from ethnic minority backgrounds, is putting undue stress on many.
It is a positive step forward to have the GDC acknowledge these factors. But the increased transparency demonstrated by the GDC in the creation of this report must extend to their investigation processes.
Rachael Bell, Head of Dental at MDDUS said, “More work needs done to improve the quality of communication in the early stages and to minimise communication errors, which can lead to unnecessary stress to registrants.
“Further work is also needed to prevent the weaponizing of the GDC by informants and to minimise the health impacts on an already stretched dental workforce.”
MDDUS would like to signpost Samaritans to anyone who feels affected by the issues raised in the report. For 24/7 help and support, they can be contacted by phoning 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org.
MDDUS also provides all members with access to YourHalo, a free, confidential wellbeing service which was developed to provide healthcare professionals with the care and support they need when facing difficult times. You can find out more about YourHalo here: Member wellbeing and mental health | MDDUS
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 65,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
The full report is available on the GDC website. [GDC publishes report on causes of death during fitness to practise investigations]
For further information please contact Mareth Burns, junior communications officer, on mburns1@mddus.com.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.