Reasons why the GMC may investigate
By registering with the General Medical Council, it becomes their best interest to ensure that you can practise safely and properly. Often, the medical know-how is not what is in question; it’s how a professional practises and behaves, such as:
- Failure to respect patient confidentiality
- Not seeking proper consent
- Bullying or harassing other colleagues or trainees
- Signs of alcohol or drug abuse
- Misconduct of any kind
- Physical or mental ill-health that can impact one’s ability to practice
- Criminal convictions or cautions
If there is any suspicion that the way you work will threaten public safety or that confidence in the profession is at risk, you can expect to face an investigation by the GMC.
A concern, if proven to be true, could impact a doctor’s ability to practice. As such, it is paramount that you seek legal expertise from an experienced GMC defence solicitor to know where you stand if an investigation is to progress.
What to do if the General Medical Council is investigating you
The first thing we strongly advise, naturally, is to contact a solicitor. If you are part of a medical defence organisation, you will need to reach out to them too.
Following this, both parties can advise on a response to the allegations:
- You can comment on the concern, which may help to resolve the issue quickly.
- If you wholeheartedly believe nothing is wrong, and everything you’ve done is accurate, say so.
- If you’ve made a mistake somewhere, you may wish to admit it and offer to retrain in that specific area to mitigate against future incidents.
Can I still work while the GMC investigates?
This will depend on the nature of the concerns or complaints.
Usually, you will be able to carry on working. However, some elements of your practice may be restricted with specific conditions put in place for you to follow in the short term. In extreme cases, you may be suspended for up to 18 months.
You may be referred to the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service for an interim orders tribunal hearing to find out what you can and can’t practice while under the GMC investigation. This will be held privately, and three tribunal members will decide.