Much needed independent learning review into handling of Dr Arora case welcomed

Post date: 02/11/2022 | Time to read article: 2 mins

The information within this article was correct at the time of publishing. Last updated 02/11/2022

Commenting on the independent learning review into the GMC’s handling of the Dr Arora case, Dr Rob Hendry, Medical Director at Medical Protection, said:

“We welcome this much needed review and the focus on proportionality of sanctions, fairness and equality, and local resolution. These issues have placed trust in the GMC on a knife edge, and unfortunately, they all came to the fore in Dr Arora’s case.

“The recommendations for better training and collaboration to enable a ‘local resolution first’ culture are vital – many including Medical Protection questioned how Dr Arora’s case got as far as the GMC, let alone to a hearing resulting in suspension. The government also needs to take action; changes to the Medical Act to give the GMC greater discretion to not take forward investigations where allegations clearly do not require action, are long overdue and we hope this review serves as a catalyst for swifter legislative reform.   

“The review is also right to highlight the need for a more compassionate and less adversarial environment for doctors under investigation. We support doctors day in day out with GMC investigations and we know the process and communication - often more akin to the criminal courts – can make things more stressful.

“We offer members 24/7 confidential independent counselling, during and beyond their investigation, and are always looking at ways to improve the support we provide. We will continue to work with the GMC on this, and in ensuring all doctors understand the importance of membership with a Medical Defence Organisation.”

END

Notes to editors

For further information contact Kate Tullett, Media Manager at: E: [email protected]  T:+44 (0)7515 298791.

About MPS

The Medical Protection Society Limited (“MPS”) is the world’s leading protection organisation for doctors, dentists and healthcare professionals. We protect and support the professional interests of more than 300,000 members around the world. Membership provides access to expert advice and support and can also provide, depending on the type of membership required, the right to request indemnity for any complaints or claims arising from professional practice.

Our in-house experts assist with the wide range of legal and ethical problems that arise from professional practice. This can include clinical negligence claims, complaints, medical and dental council inquiries, legal and ethical dilemmas, disciplinary procedures, inquests and fatal accident inquiries.

Our philosophy is to support safe practice in medicine and dentistry by helping to avert problems in the first place. We do this by promoting risk management through our workshops, E-learning, clinical risk assessments, publications, conferences, lectures and presentations.

MPS is not an insurance company. All the benefits of membership of MPS are discretionary as set out in the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

 

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